Travelers will soon be flying the Crane of the East African country – Uganda – after Uganda Airlines’ first of four bombardier CRJ-900 (CRJ9) planes takes to the skies for the first time in Montreal, Canada.
A test flight for Uganda Airlines’ first Bombardier CRJ-900 aircraft has been conducted at Montreal Mirabel International Airport, Canada.
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft in 2018 announced signing a firm order for four new CRJ900 regional jets with Uganda National Airlines Company.
Based on the list price for the CRJ900 aircraft, the firm order is valued at approximately US$190 million.
Uganda Airlines will operate the CRJ900 in dual-class configuration with 76 seats, including 12 first class seats.
“We are delighted to have ordered the world’s leading regional jet, and we look forward to providing the most modern passenger experience in regional aviation to the people of Uganda and across Africa,” said Ephraim Bagenda, CEO Uganda National Airlines.
“As we were establishing Entebbe as a strong hub in East Africa and building more connectivity in Africa, we thoroughly reviewed our needs. With its proven track record in Africa and other regions of the world, we are confident that the CRJ900 aircraft will help us succeed.”
Key features of the new interior are comprised of larger passenger living space, wheel-first roller bag capability, more spacious lavatory, increased cabin connectivity options, all integrated in a contemporary.
Ugandan Minister for Works and Transport, Monica Azuba said the first of four CRJ-900s would arrive in January followed by the remaining three over the following three months.
Two A330-800s will deliver from Airbus (AIB, Toulouse Blagnac) in 2020.
Uganda Airlines expects to commence operations between March and April 2019.
Uganda Airlines was the flag carrier of Uganda until operations ceased in 2001. Government has now brought the airline back to life with an order of 4 CRJ9 and 2 A339 aircraft. The video shows the first of four CRJ’s for the airline!
