Uganda’s national carrier has marked a major technical milestone after completing its first-ever Uganda Airlines engine change using local engineers. The operation, carried out on a CRJ900 aircraft at Eagle Air Hangar 7 in Entebbe, took four to five days as part of a training program for 18 graduate trainees under the airline’s Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO).
CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki hailed the achievement as a turning point for the airline, noting that while it was a first for Uganda Airlines, many of the engineers had previous experience with international carriers. “This is the first time we’re having an engine change in Uganda,” she said, underscoring the value of building local capacity.
The development is expected to save the airline significant costs. Head of maintenance Peter Emuge revealed that overseas engine changes often exceed $100,000 per unit, excluding ferrying costs, navigation fees, and handling charges. By conducting the work locally, Uganda Airlines avoids those heavy expenses while boosting technical independence.
Despite this progress, the airline continues to battle challenges, including spare parts shortages that have occasionally grounded planes. Emuge stressed that this is a global issue in the aviation sector due to post-COVID supply chain disruptions.
Uganda Airlines, which currently operates four CRJ900s, two Airbus A330s, and one leased A320, has carried over one million passengers since relaunching in 2019. Revenues have grown from $70,000 in the first year to $419,000 last financial year, yet profitability remains out of reach. “When will we be self-sustained? That keeps me awake,” admitted Bamuturaki.
She also defended the airline against public criticism, describing it as “absurd” to undermine a carrier that employs more than 500 Ugandans. “We are here because of the travelling public. My call is for Ugandans not to give up on Uganda Airlines,” she urged.
Looking ahead, the airline is pursuing IOSA certification, with an audit scheduled for February 2026. Plans are also underway to build a new hangar near Entebbe airport, a facility expected to enhance maintenance efficiency once completed in two years.
The successful Uganda Airlines engine change is seen as both a cost-saving breakthrough and a symbol of the airline’s gradual progress toward stability, despite persistent financial and operational hurdles.