(Entebbe) – The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has taken action by seizing nine aircraft that had been left abandoned at Entebbe International Airport. This move, which took place on September 10, 2024, addresses growing concerns about safety and environmental issues related to the neglected planes.
According to Vianney Luggya, UCAA’s spokesperson, the decision to seize these aircraft is part of a larger initiative to manage the airport more effectively. The authority plans to auction off the seized planes to recoup the costs incurred from their maintenance and storage.
The UCAA had previously attempted to engage with the aircraft owners regarding the abandoned planes, but these efforts were reportedly unsuccessful. In November 2023, a similar situation led to the announcement of an auction for eight other abandoned aircraft at Entebbe Airport. These included various models such as a Boeing 732-5X-SKA.
The auction, which was scheduled for November 30, 2023, aimed to clear space at the airport. The auction notice, posted in New Vision, detailed the aircraft up for sale and specified that payment would be required in cash upon completion of the auction.
The practice of auctioning abandoned aircraft is not unique to Uganda. In 2021, the Kenya Airports Authority announced the public auction of 73 derelict aircraft from various airports, citing safety risks. A year earlier, Kenya had auctioned 101 aircraft under similar circumstances.
Efforts to establish the ownership of the seized aircraft have been unsuccessful as UCAA officials were unavailable for comment.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Seized Aircraft | Nine planes abandoned at Entebbe International Airport |
| Date of Seizure | September 10, 2024 |
| Purpose of Seizure | Address safety and environmental concerns |
| Planned Action | Auction of seized aircraft to recover maintenance costs |
| Previous Auction | Eight abandoned aircraft auctioned in November 2023 |
| Auction Details | Scheduled for November 30, 2023, with cash payment terms |
| Similar International Actions | Kenya Airports Authority auctioned 73 derelict aircraft in 2021 |
| Ownership Inquiry | UCAA officials unavailable for comment |
