Government insists ‘unwanted’ Airbus 300 Neo is best for Uganda Airlines

Government has defended its decision to procure the Airbus A330 -800 New Engine Option (Neo) series aircraft as opposed to any other space crafts as part of its efforts to revive the defunct Uganda Airlines.

Since last week, there has been hullabaloo over Uganda choosing the aircraft which has since been branded as being unwanted and dumped by other airlines across the world in favour of other airbus aircrafts.

Addressing journalists in Kampala, Eng.Monica Ntege Azuba, the Works and Transport minister described it as cheap politics at play.

“The A330neo is not an unwanted aircraft .Industry figures show that the A330 family of aircraft is the most popular aircraft in its class and is preferred by the majority of airlines worldwide,”Azuba said on Tuesday morning.

 “The A330 family of aircraft has the largest customer base in its class with 105 customers worldwide compared with only 41 customers for its direct competitor the B787.”

The Minister said that prior to reaching an agreement ,a task-force  was put in place by government comprising pilots, aviation experts and seasoned engineers to help develop a business plan and do a risk assessment plan before the airline could be revived.

She said the task-force undertook ‘detailed’ engagements with various aircraft manufacturers being coming up with the final conclusion on the type of aircrafts to be purchased for the Uganda Airlines.

Reports had indicated that the A330 -800 that Uganda had chosen has seen  a near-zero demand from airlines across the world since its launch in 2014, citing an example of Hawaiian Airlines which cancelled six orders in March in  favour of Boeing.

The Works and Transports minister said there was misrepresentation in regard to cancellation of airbus orders by the Hawaiian Airline.

“The change of order by the Airline was mainly on Political grounds according to our sources,”Azuba said.

A300 Neo is best

The Minister explained that the A330-800neo is the best aircraft for Uganda Airlines because it is fuel efficient and can move long distances without refuelling.

“Uganda Airlines has selected A330-800neo for   good reasons which include, its range payload advantage, its fuel efficient new engine, revamped cabin and other enhancements in comparison with other aircraft types.”

“The new engine option (neo) brings additional operating efficiencies to this aircraft family and uses a better more technologically advanced engine and that is why it is called the “neo”,”Azuba added.

Uganda will in its bid to revive its national airline that collapsed 17 years ago will purchase six aircrafts including four Bombardiers and two Airbuses.

The Bombadiers will ply regional routes whereas the Airbuses are expected to ply the long-haul routes.