Uganda Airlines has finally added its wide body Airbus A330-800NEO aircraft to its Air Operator’s Certificate after completing a certification process that has lasted more than 6 months.
The news means that the Uganda flag carrier can now embark on operationalizing its long-haul plans. The Airline is set to launch its maiden overseas route to Dubai as early as September and plans to start flights to London in November according to the acting CEO.
The A330-800NEO is a new-generation aircraft powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines. According to Airbus, the NEO burns 25% less fuel per seat than previous generation competitors
The passenger cabin provides a great passenger experience and enhanced comfort with 20 full-flat, business-class beds, 28 premium-economy seats and 210 economy-class seats, totalling 258 seats.
Despite this, the A330-800 has not been a commercial success for Airbus. Only 4 airlines in the world have ordered the type with Garuda Indonesia, Kuwait Airways and Air Greenland joining Uganda Airlines in this exclusive club. The covid pandemic and current industry crisis will most likely ensure that group stays small in the short term atleast
Uganda Airlines also plans to connect Uganda to Mumbai, India and Guangzhou, China with its brand new A330 aircraft
Airspace.
