Uganda Airlines completes first in-house engine change on CRJ900, sets sights on regional MRO growth
Uganda Airlines has marked a major milestone in its maintenance journey with the successful completion of its first in-house engine change on a Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft (registration 5X-KNP). The achievement comes as the airline prepares to celebrate its sixth anniversary, underscoring its growing technical capacity and drive toward self-reliance.
The complex operation was carried out by Uganda Airlines’ Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO), which was certified by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) in March 2024. Until now, engine changes for the fleet were performed abroad, typically in South Africa or the Netherlands, at a cost of more than $100,000 per event, including ferrying aircraft, engineers, and parts. Completing the task locally represents significant savings and greater operational independence for the carrier.
“This marks a turning point for us as a national airline. Successfully carrying out an engine change at Entebbe shows the strength of our engineering capability and reduces dependency on overseas providers,” airline officials said.
The AMO currently employs more than 40 engineers and technicians, many trained at the East African Civil Aviation Academy (Soroti Flying School) and Makerere University. Up to now, the facility had primarily handled line maintenance activities such as tire changes, inspections, and minor repairs. The engine replacement is its first major maintenance task and a stepping stone toward broader capabilities.
Uganda Airlines has also committed to expanding its AMO to serve third-party customers, with the goal of establishing Entebbe as a regional centre of excellence in aircraft maintenance. This aligns with wider efforts to boost Africa’s aviation self-sufficiency, develop local talent, and create sustainable industry opportunities.
As Uganda Airlines enters its seventh year, the successful engine change not only strengthens fleet readiness and cost efficiency but also positions the carrier as a future provider of world-class MRO services across Africa.
