Uganda Airlines has placed its first-ever order with Boeing, agreeing to buy four 737-8 and four 787-9 aircraft to renew and expand its fleet, the US planemaker announced Tuesday at the Farnborough International Airshow.

The order marks the East African carrier's debut as a Boeing customer and is aimed at supporting rising travel demand across its regional and international network, according to a statement from Boeing.

Uganda Airlines is the flag carrier of Uganda, operating from Entebbe International Airport near the capital, Kampala. The airline currently serves 17 destinations in 13 countries.

"This commitment with Boeing marks a defining step in Uganda Airlines' growth journey and in our broader ambition to position Entebbe as a strategic aviation hub for the region," said Ato Girma Wake, the airline's chief executive.

He said the aircraft would strengthen the carrier's ability to connect Uganda to regional, continental, and international markets while supporting trade, tourism, investment, and cargo development.

The 737-8, which seats 160 to 180 passengers in a two-class layout and ranges up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km), is intended for Uganda Airlines' intra-Africa routes and services to the Middle East and India.

The 787-9 will support long-haul routes to the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, with a range of up to 8,300 nautical miles (15,370 km).

Boeing said the combined fleet would allow Uganda Airlines to reach more destinations while cutting fuel use by 20 to 25 percent compared with the aircraft being replaced.

"We're pleased to welcome Uganda Airlines as a Boeing customer and support the airline's next phase of growth with the 737-8 and 787-9," said Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

He said the aircraft would offer the efficiency, range, and versatility needed to strengthen and expand the carrier's network.

Uganda Airlines began operations in 2019 as a revival of the country's earlier national carrier, which had ceased flying in 2001.

Source: PR