Air Senegal Suspends Flights to Seven International Destinations

Air Senegal is implementing major changes to its flight network, suspending services to seven international destinations starting this month. The West African carrier will discontinue flights to New York John F. Kennedy (JFK) on September 19, followed by Milan Malpensa, Libreville (Gabon), Douala (Cameroon), and Barcelona (Spain) on September 20. Additionally, services to Marseille and Lyon in France will cease on September 22.

This decision is part of Air Senegal’s broader strategic review aimed at addressing operational difficulties and improving profitability on certain long-haul and regional routes. The airline stated that these cuts are intended to “optimize its network” and enhance service for its passengers.

As a result, Air Senegal will no longer serve destinations in Cameroon, Gabon, Italy, Spain, or the U.S. The airline will, however, continue to offer flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, maintaining its presence in the French market.

Air Senegal, which emerged as the successor to Senegal Airlines, began operations in May 2018. It operates a fleet of eight aircraft, including two Airbus A319s, one A321, one A330-900, two ATR 72-600s, and two Let L-410s, according to data from CAPA – Centre for Aviation. The airline’s service between Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) and New York JFK is its longest route, covering 3,825 miles (3,324 nautical miles), and was its sole U.S. connection. The route, launched in September 2021, initially included a continuation to Baltimore Washington International Airport.

Currently, Air Senegal operates the DSS-JFK route twice a week. With its withdrawal from this market, Delta Air Lines will be the only carrier offering nonstop flights between Senegal and the U.S., operating three flights per week.

As of the week commencing September 2, Air Senegal operates 28 nonstop routes and offers 25,700 weekly seats. The airline holds a significant share of the market from and within Senegal, with a 25.3% capacity share, ahead of competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines at 9.3% and Brussels Airlines at 8.2%.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Air Senegal, AFP