Uganda receives two more bombardier CRJ 900 jetliners
Uganda Airlines’ two Bombardier planes arrived at Entebbe International Airport on October 7, 2019. PHOTO BY ABUBAKER LUBOWA
What you need to know:
- The Uganda National Airlines Company will operate the CRJ900 in dual-class configuration with 76 economy seats and 12 first class seats.
Uganda Airlines has received two new Bombardier planes growing the number of the National Airline aircraft fleet to four.
After the two jetliners touchdown at Entebbe International Airport on Monday, Uganda Airlines’ chief executive officer, Mr Cornwell Muleya said the arrival of the new aircrafts was a sign of commitment by President Museveni and the government of Uganda to revive the National Airline.
The first batch of two new other aircrafts was received on April 23, 2019 at Entebbe International Airport.
The event, marked by ululations, chants and dances, signals the official revival of Uganda Airlines that was liquidated in 2001.
Before landing, the jets first circled the airport and around Kampala.
Last year, Uganda ordered for four CRJ900 regional jets as part of the much-anticipated plan for the revival of the national carrier.
The revived airline will be the first carrier to operate the new CRJ-series atmosphere cabin in Africa.
The cabin design allows passengers to carry and store an "oversized" roller bag within the aircraft cabin bins, which minimises the need to check bags at the counter or the gate.
Government paid Shs280 billion ($74.8 million) for the two planes through a supplementary budget approval by Parliament.
The Uganda National Airlines Company will operate the CRJ900 in dual-class configuration with 76 economy seats and 12 first class seats.
According to the manufacturer, the new model atmosphere cabin sets new standards of passenger experience in the regional jet market segment.
Key features of the new interior comprise of larger passenger living space, wheel-first roller bag capability, more spacious lavatory, increased cabin connectivity options, all integrated into a contemporary design and material choices.
The revival of the national carrier has divided opinions with some government technocrats, including some at the Central Bank opposing it.
However, the government maintained it needed a carrier to promote tourism and ensure national pride.
