Uganda’s request for an extra Shs 450 billion to purchase additional aircraft for Uganda Airlines has sparked strong reactions in Parliament, with legislators questioning the airline’s readiness to handle a larger fleet and the government’s decision to seek such a massive sum outside the normal budget cycle.
The proposal, presented before Parliament’s Physical Infrastructure Committee, is part of a wider plan to acquire up to 10 new planes for the national carrier. However, MPs raised alarm over why the funding was not included in the 2025/26 budget, arguing that the supplementary method is meant for emergencies, not long-term investments.
Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Jenifer Bamuturaki defended the airline’s troubled schedule, insisting that the frequent delays and cancellations frustrating passengers are caused by sudden airport restrictions issued by aviation authorities in several countries. She noted that in recent weeks, Entebbe, Bujumbura, Juba, and Dar es Salaam all issued unexpected notices that forced route disruptions.
Transport Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala agreed that the airline is currently overwhelmed, saying the existing aircraft cannot fully support the fast-growing demand. He explained that the carrier already handles close to 40 percent of all passenger movements through Entebbe International Airport, yet its fleet remains too small to operate efficiently.
Lawmakers, however, questioned the urgency behind the Shs 450 billion request. Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda criticised the government for bypassing the regular budgeting process. He argued that nothing about the airline’s plan qualifies as an emergency and warned that Parliament should not be pushed into approving such expenditure without adequate justification.
Bugabula North MP Maurice Kibalya called for a gradual expansion plan instead of buying all 10 planes at once. He also expressed concern about what he described as recurring management weaknesses that continue to frustrate travellers. Mityana North MP Kibedi Nsegumire added that while expanding the fleet is necessary, the airline risks losing public trust if delays remain unchecked.
The government’s request comes at a time when the airline is under increasing public scrutiny over late flights, cancellations, and customer complaints. Uganda Airlines currently operates a small fleet of CRJ900s and Airbus A330neos while eyeing new regional and long-distance routes.
Parliament’s committee is expected to examine the proposal more closely before forwarding a recommendation to the full House. If approved, the Shs 450 billion request would become one of the largest financial boosts given to the national carrier since its revival in 2019.