Uganda Aviation Academy acquires Cessna 421 in major fleet expansion.
By Okidi Patrick Ocamoyitdyel
KAMPALA — Uganda Aviation Academy Ltd (UAA) has acquired a Cessna 421 Golden Eagle aircraft as it accelerates a strategic fleet expansion programme aimed at strengthening aviation training and positioning Uganda as a regional centre for aviation excellence.
The aircraft, registration 5X-VIP, was acquired from Safari Air International AAA Ltd.
The acquisition, announced in Kampala, forms part of UAA’s long-term aviation development programme. It comes as the Academy pursues a wider expansion involving eight additional training aircraft, two flight simulators, and the growth of its training centres in Entebbe and Jinja.
The Cessna 421 Golden Eagle is a pressurised, twin-engine piston aircraft known for its executive transport capabilities, sophisticated aircraft systems and high-performance operating characteristics.
Its addition to the Academy’s fleet is expected to support advanced technical familiarisation, aircraft systems education, aviation maintenance training and other approved aviation programmes.
Mrs Yogi Birigwa, the Chairperson of the Board of Uganda Aviation Academy, described the acquisition as an important step towards strengthening the institution’s capacity and advancing its long-term vision.
The Academy’s Executive Director, Mr Rodney Mukula, will oversee the integration of the aircraft into the institution’s fleet development strategy, subject to the applicable Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) approvals.
UAA noted that the aircraft’s introduction into any flight-training operation will be subject to appropriate maintenance arrangements, continuing-airworthiness compliance, approved training specifications and UCAA authorisation.
With 15 years of experience in aviation education and training, Uganda Aviation Academy says it remains committed to developing highly skilled aviation professionals, creating opportunities for young Ugandans and contributing to the growth of the aviation industry across East and Central Africa.
The Academy’s broader expansion programme was also reported by Ugandan media on November 6-7, 2026.
Motto: AIM HIGH.
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