In the wake of Air Senegal’s recent struggles and strategic recalibration, opposition figures have voiced sharp criticism of the government’s recovery plan, highlighting concerns over the future viability of the national carrier.
In September 2024, Air Senegal made the difficult decision to end its transatlantic route to New York’s JFK airport.
This move marked the end of an ambitious but costly long-haul project that had become unsustainable amid mounting financial pressures.
The route’s closure, once a symbol of Senegal’s openness to the United States, was widely seen as a strategic retreat from competing with established international airlines on intercontinental flights.
Now, Air Senegal appears to be focusing on strengthening its presence within regional and African markets, shifting its business model toward consolidation rather than expansion. However, this pivot has raised doubts among opposition politicians and industry watchers alike, who question whether the downsizing alone will be enough to secure the airline’s future.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has taken personal charge of the situation, vowing to restore governance order, reduce unnecessary spending, and evaluate the airline’s long-term sustainability. “Like a pilot taking back control of an aircraft that has lost altitude, the state is attempting to restore balance without sabotaging what remains an instrument of air sovereignty,” officials say.
Despite recent legal victories easing some financial pressures, Air Senegal’s future remains uncertain. The company’s challenges extend beyond the courtroom, requiring a thorough re-examination of its business model and strategic direction.
As the airline emerges cautiously from its latest crisis, critics warn that a true recovery will demand more than quick fixes. The turbulence is far from over, and Senegal’s national carrier must navigate complex challenges if it hopes to soar again.
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