Uganda Aviation Academy Ltd (UAA) has acquired a Cessna 421 Golden Eagle aircraft from Safari Air International AAA Ltd in a move aimed at strengthening its aviation training capacity and accelerating its fleet expansion programme.
The aircraft, registration number 5X-VIP, adds to the Academy’s growing aviation training infrastructure as the institution pursues its ambition of positioning Uganda as a leading regional hub for aviation education and professional training.
The Cessna 421 Golden Eagle is a pressurised, twin-engine piston aircraft known for its executive transport capabilities, advanced aircraft systems and high-performance characteristics.
Its acquisition is expected to support advanced technical familiarisation, aircraft systems education, aviation maintenance training and other approved training programmes, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals.
Uganda Aviation Academy Board Chairperson Mrs Yogi Birigwa described the acquisition as an important milestone in the institution’s long-term development strategy.
Executive Director Rodney Mukula will oversee the integration of the aircraft into the Academy’s fleet expansion programme, subject to applicable Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) requirements.
The latest acquisition comes as UAA advances a wider expansion programme involving eight additional training aircraft, two flight simulators and the establishment of two new aviation training centres in Entebbe and Jinja.
The expansion is expected to increase the institution’s training capacity, improve access to specialised aviation education and create more opportunities for Ugandans seeking careers in the aviation industry.
With 15 years of experience in aviation education and training, Uganda Aviation Academy is positioning itself to contribute to the development of skilled aviation professionals while supporting the growth of the sector across East and Central Africa.
The introduction of the newly acquired aircraft into flight-training operations will be subject to maintenance arrangements, continuing-airworthiness requirements, approved training specifications and UCAA authorisation.