Uganda Airlines has officially added a wet-leased Boeing 737-800 aircraft to its growing fleet in a move aimed at strengthening operations and improving flexibility across its route network.
The national carrier announced on Tuesday that the aircraft, operated in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, is the first of two newly leased aircraft expected to join the airline.
In a statement shared on X, Uganda Airlines said the addition would support the airline’s expansion and operational reliability.
“Today, we officially welcomed the first of two newly leased aircraft into the Uganda Airlines fleet with a wet-leased Boeing 737-800 operated in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines,” the airline stated.
“This addition strengthens our operations and enhances flexibility as we continue to deliver greater connectivity across our network.”
A wet lease arrangement typically involves leasing an aircraft together with crew, maintenance and insurance services from another airline operator.
The Ministry of Works and Transport welcomed the development, saying the aircraft would help address operational challenges on some routes.
“Congrats, Uganda Airlines, on receiving the wet-leased Boeing 737-800. This helps to mitigate some hiccups on our routes,” the ministry posted on X.
The development comes as Uganda Airlines continues efforts to expand its regional and international footprint amid increasing passenger demand and growing competition within Africa’s aviation sector.
Uganda Airlines currently operates regional and international routes connecting Entebbe to destinations across Africa, the Middle East and Europe. The carrier has, in recent years, expanded its fleet and route network as part of government efforts to position Uganda as a regional aviation hub.
The partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s largest and most established carriers, is expected to enhance operational efficiency and maintain schedule reliability as Uganda Airlines awaits additional aircraft deliveries and fleet expansion plans.