Air Senegal has officially launched its new subsidiary, Air Senegal Express, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation strategy and signaling a bold move to strengthen domestic and regional air connectivity. This initiative is part of a broader effort to revitalize Senegal’s air transport infrastructure and address longstanding challenges in accessibility, affordability, and operational efficiency. The announcement follows a high-level interministerial council meeting earlier in 2025, where Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko outlined plans to restructure the national carrier and improve services at Blaise Diagne International Airport.
Air Senegal Express is designed to operate short-haul routes within Senegal and to neighboring countries, focusing on underserved destinations that are critical for economic integration and regional mobility. The subsidiary will complement Air Senegal’s existing international operations by deploying a fleet of ATR72-600 aircraft, known for their reliability and suitability for short-distance travel. These aircraft will enable the new airline to serve smaller airports and remote regions, enhancing access to key cities such as Ziguinchor and Saint-Louis. The move aligns with the goals of the Plan Sénégal Émergent, a national development blueprint that envisions transforming Senegal into a regional aviation hub.
In addition to expanding route networks, the government has committed to rehabilitating secondary airports and improving infrastructure to support the new airline’s operations. This includes upgrading facilities, streamlining logistics, and ensuring compliance with international safety standards. Air Senegal Express will also adopt a capital structure that invites private national investors, reflecting a shift toward public-private partnerships in the aviation sector. This approach is expected to foster innovation, improve service quality, and ensure financial sustainability.
To reinforce confidence in the national carrier and its new subsidiary, the government has pledged to settle Air Senegal’s outstanding operational debts by mid-2025. This financial cleanup is seen as a crucial step in restoring trust among suppliers, partners, and passengers. By addressing legacy issues and introducing a fresh operational model, Air Senegal Express aims to redefine air travel in the region and position Senegal as a leader in modern, accessible aviation.
The launch of Air Senegal Express represents more than just an expansion of flight services, it is a strategic investment in the country’s future. It reflects a renewed commitment to inclusive growth, tourism development, and regional integration, with the potential to reshape the aviation landscape across West Africa. As the new airline takes flight, it carries with it the promise of greater connectivity, economic opportunity, and national pride.