Uganda Airlines is gearing up to bolster its fleet next month by adding an Airbus A320neo, marking a significant step in enhancing its operational capacity. The acquisition will be facilitated through a wet-lease agreement, where the lessor provides the complete aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance.
This strategic move comes as Uganda Airlines is in the final stages of procuring another aircraft permanently, underscoring the airline’s commitment to growth and service expansion.
While details regarding the lease agreement remain undisclosed, the imminent arrival of the Airbus A320neo reflects the airline’s proactive approach to addressing its fleet needs and meeting rising passenger demand.
Jennifer Bamuturaki, Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines, acknowledged the ongoing staffing challenges faced by the national carrier. She stated, “We are actively hiring both pilots and flight attendants, both locally and internationally,” highlighting the limited pool of qualified pilots in Uganda and the necessity to source talent regionally and globally.
The airline’s admission of a staff shortage, particularly in the pilot segment, is exacerbated by recent retirements, with five pilots having retired recently. This phenomenon is not unique to Uganda Airlines but reflects a global trend influenced by factors such as an aging pilot workforce, escalating air travel demand, and stringent training prerequisites.
To mitigate the impact of the staff shortage, Uganda Airlines has temporarily reduced its daily flights to Juba and Nairobi from three to two. Despite these adjustments, David Kaweesi, the airline’s Director of Operations, emphasized that the airline adheres strictly to global guidelines, ensuring adequate rest periods for its crew members and maintaining operational integrity.
In response to the ongoing challenges, Uganda Airlines is exploring options such as extending the retirement age for pilots to retain experienced personnel and bolster its training capabilities. These measures align with the airline’s long-term vision of balancing growth with effective manpower management, ensuring safe and efficient operations while meeting the evolving needs of its passengers.
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