Uganda Airlines Abandons Wet Leases for Dry Fleet Management
Uganda Airlines is revamping its operations by shifting from wet leases to dry leases. This move involves recruiting Boeing 737 pilots as part of the carrier's effort to control costs and build in-house capability. The airline has ordered eight new Boeing jets, including four 737-8s and four 787-9s.
The shift from wet leases, where the lessor provides aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance, to dry leases, where the carrier is responsible for these aspects, will reduce lease rates. Uganda Airlines has been operating two Boeing 737-800s on a wet lease arrangement with Ethiopian Airlines since May 2026.
The airline needs around 80 new pilots and more than 200 cabin crew as it expands its fleet. Captain applicants must hold 737 type ratings, five or more years of airline experience, and substantial instructional hours. The recruitment process is part of the carrier's reset under interim CEO Girma Wake, who was appointed in February 2026.