KAMPALA
Uganda’s national carrier is under fresh scrutiny following a parliamentary report that warned of looming operational and safety challenges, with opposition voices warning that the airline could be grounded within five years.
Last week, Parliament’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) raised alarm over Uganda Airlines’ fleet, noting that spare parts for its Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft are increasingly difficult to obtain after the closure of the manufacturing company’s production line.
The revelations have sparked public debate on the airline’s procurement decisions and long-term viability. On Monday, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) spokesperson John Kikonyogo told journalists at the party’s headquarters in Najjanankumbi that the findings point to gross negligence and possible corruption.
“We are soon grounding our aircraft. I think this is criminal. You buy the most expensive, high-quality planes and five years down the road you have no spares because the company shut down,” Kikonyogo said.
He questioned how procurement decisions were made, arguing that the government sidelined aviation experts such as retired Captain Francis Babu while relying on what he termed “deal makers.”
“Even Amin, who did not go beyond P5, had planes in Entebbe and they were functioning very well,” Kikonyogo said. “Now you tell us there are no spares. What is the safety of our planes in the air if we don’t have them?”
The FDC spokesperson warned that unless accountability is enforced, Uganda Airlines risks collapsing in a few years.
Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 with six aircraft, including four Bombardier CRJ900s and two Airbus A330neos, at a cost of more than $500 million. At the time, government officials described the investment as key to boosting tourism and trade.
But the airline has faced turbulence since its relaunch, with questions over profitability, governance, and procurement. Earlier this year, COSASE flagged irregularities in board appointments and procurement processes, alongside concerns about financial mismanagement.
The government has not yet issued an official response to the latest concerns raised by COSASE and the opposition. However, civil aviation analysts warn that if spare part shortages are not addressed, Uganda Airlines could face both operational inefficiencies and safety risks.
The airline currently operates regional flights within Africa and intercontinental routes to Dubai, London, and Guangzhou.
