Uganda Airlines, the national carrier, has publicly admitted to a severe operational crisis, confirming that the grounding of two aircraft, including one of its prized Airbus A330 Neo planes, is responsible for the recent wave of mass flight cancellations and extensive delays.
The disruptions have escalated into scenes of passenger chaos and distress at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), particularly during the peak festive travel season.
The Operational Crisis: Two Aircraft Down
Uganda Airlines Chief Executive Officer, Jenifer Bamuturaki, attributed the “severe disruption” to the immediate unavailability of key fleet components.
“We have had quite a bit of disruption with cancellations and delays and these have been caused by the fact that we are two aircraft less,” CEO Bamuturaki stated.
The most critical factor affecting long-haul capacity is the Airbus A330 Neo grounded in Lagos, Nigeria, due to a technical fault. Additionally, a CRJ aircraft is also on the ground for technical issues.
The airline confirmed it is operating with a significantly reduced fleet of seven aircraft (including a wet lease), meaning the shortage has created a “knock-on effect” across its entire network. This severe capacity constraint has forced the carrier to either combine scheduled flights or delay them extensively.
Passenger Chaos and Frustration at Entebbe
The technical faults have quickly translated into a public relations nightmare for the airline. Over the past weekend, videos circulated widely on social media showing stranded passengers at Entebbe Airport check-in counters. Reports indicated a lack of communication, leading some frustrated travelers to abandon their luggage.
CEO Bamuturaki acknowledged the unfortunate situation, describing it as “not a good time for us,” while addressing customer complaints about not being informed of the flight cancellations and delays.
Addressing Rumours and Seeking a Solution
The airline is racing to resolve the technical issues, particularly for the wide-body A330 Neo. Bamuturaki confirmed that Uganda Airlines is actively working with the manufacturer to urgently source the necessary parts to return the plane to service.
The CEO also took the opportunity to clear up public confusion regarding the long-haul fleet, specifically refuting journalist-circulated rumours that a second A330 was also grounded in London. She clarified that only the aircraft stuck in Lagos is currently unavailable, while the second wide-body jet remains operational, though its sole availability drastically limits the airline’s capacity.
Uganda Airlines faces the urgent challenge of managing customer expectations and restoring its full flight schedule ahead of the new year.
