Air Senegal has taken a bold leap toward its next phase of growth, announcing a commitment to purchase nine Boeing 737 MAX aircraft at the ongoing Dubai Airshow — the flag carrier’s largest aircraft order in its history and its first Boeing deal since 2004.
The landmark commitment signals a major fleet renewal as the airline accelerates plans to expand its regional footprint and push deeper into Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. The deal, once finalized, will introduce the versatile 737-8 to Air Senegal’s single-aisle operations, unlocking new route opportunities and boosting connectivity for West Africa’s rising aviation hub.
With the 737 MAX’s range and efficiency, Air Senegal will be able to connect Dakar directly to additional European destinations — including secondary cities that typically require long layovers at major hubs. The airline also plans to launch entirely new long-thin routes from Dakar into the Middle East and the Americas, giving passengers faster, more seamless travel options.
Chief Executive Officer Tidiane Ndiaye described the order as a defining moment for the young and ambitious carrier.
“This acquisition marks a major milestone for Air Sénégal,” Ndiaye said. “This order is part of Air Sénégal’s strategy to strengthen and modernize its fleet in order to support the expansion of its regional and intercontinental network and reinforce Dakar’s position as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.”
A strengthened single-aisle fleet is expected to dovetail with Senegal’s broader aviation ambitions, including the continued development of Blaise Diagne International Airport as a premier connecting hub for the region.
As African carriers push for larger roles on the global aviation stage, Air Senegal’s record-setting deal positions it firmly among the continent’s rising players — and signals that Dakar is gearing up to compete for a bigger share of global air traffic.
Source:@aviationbrk
