Written by Tony Ofungi – eTN Uganda
Uganda’s tourism promotion in the United States gained fresh momentum as Uganda Airlines announced its first-ever Boeing aircraft order. The landmark fleet expansion strengthens international connectivity, supports sustainable ation as an emerging East African a
ENTEBBE, Uganda – Uganda’s successful tourism promotion campaign in the United States continues to generate momentum, with Uganda Airlines announcing its first-ever direct aircraft order from Boeing just days after Uganda concluded a high-profile tourism roadshow in San Francisco
The announcement follows the San Francisco Tourism Roadshow, organized by the Embassy of Uganda in Washington, D.C., at Marketplace on July 23, where Ugandan tourism stakeholders promoted the country as a premier destination for leisure, business, and investment
At the Farnborough International Airshow, Uganda Airlines confirmed a landmark agreement with Boeing for the acquisition of four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft and four Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the airline’s first direct purchase from the U.S. manufacturer. The order forms the centerpiece of a broader 10-aircraft fleet expansion, which also includes two dedicated cargo freighters
The investment is expected to strengthen Uganda’s international connectivity, support tourism growth, facilitate trade, and further deepen economic ties between Uganda and the United States
“The timing of this announcement reinforces the message delivered during the San Francisco Tourism Roadshow—that Uganda is open for tourism, business, and investment,” tourism stakeholders said following the announcement
Home – Uganda Tourism Board
The U.S. Embassy in Uganda also congratulated Uganda Airlines on the historic order, describing it as another example of the growing partnership between Uganda and the United States, with aooperation
Among the private sector participants at the San Francisco Roadshow was Maleng Travel, which showcased Uganda’s tourism products to American tour operators, travel advisors, and tourism investors
“The United States remains one of Uganda’s most important long-haul tourismstrengthen traveler confidence and make Uganda even more accessible to international visitors.”
Uganda Airlines Bets on Boeing to Build East Africa’s Next Aviation Hub
The new fleet will significantly expand Uganda Airlines’ operational capabilities. The fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 aircraft will support regional expansion, while the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will enable additional long-haul services with enhanced passenger comfort and lower operating costs. The cargo freighters will boost Uganda’s air freight capacity, supporting exports and regional trade
The expansion is also expected to strengthen Entebbe International Airport’s position as an emerging adly at aircraft
Uganda Airlines currently operates flights to 17 destinations across 13 countries. The arrival of the new aircraft will allow the national carrier to broaden its network, increase passenger and cargo capacity, and improve operational efficiency
For Uganda’s tourism industry, the fleet expansion complements ongoing destination marketing efforts in North America and other international markets. Industry leaders say improved accessibility is essential for attracting more leisure travelers, business visitors, meetings and incentives (MICE) groups, and investors
The San Francisco Tourism Roadshow highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in growing Uganda’s visitor economy. Maleng Travel said it welcomes collaboration with international travel agencies, tour wholesalers, meeting planners, and media partners interested in developing authentic and sustainable travel experiences in Uganda and across East Africa
