Air Sénégal Faces Turbulence: Government Sets 30-Day Deadline for Recovery Plan

The Senegalese national carrier, Air Sénégal, is navigating through one of its most challenging periods as the government steps in with a firm ultimatum. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has given the Minister of Transport a strict 30-day deadline to implement a comprehensive recovery plan aimed at rescuing the airline from its deepening crisis. This decision, announced during the Council of Ministers on February 11, 2026, underscores the urgency of addressing the airline's operational and financial woes.

Air Sénégal’s current predicament is marked by the grounding of its entire owned fleet, which includes two Airbus A330neo and two ATR 72-600 aircraft. Despite a public injection of \$28 million in April 2025, the airline continues to grapple with mounting supplier debts. To maintain its network, the company has been forced to rely exclusively on leased aircraft from foreign operators such as GetJet Airlines and Myway Airlines. This reliance on external resources has further strained the airline’s financial stability and operational efficiency.

Prime Minister Sonko has emphasized the critical importance of Air Sénégal to the nation’s image, connectivity, and economic growth. The airline serves as a vital link for Senegal’s tourism industry, its diaspora, and its strategic positioning in West Africa. Recognizing these stakes, the government has outlined a series of measures to be implemented within the 30-day timeframe. These include finalizing and accelerating the operational recovery plan, launching a refinancing operation, presenting a detailed proposal for definitive recapitalization, and conducting a thorough audit to identify inefficiencies and propose corrective actions.

The crisis at Air Sénégal is not just a financial issue but also a matter of national pride and strategic importance. The airline’s struggles have been compounded by what some critics describe as poor decision-making, including the acquisition of aircraft that are now deemed unusable. This has led to significant operational disruptions, with some domestic routes, such as Dakar–Saint-Louis, reportedly operating at a loss or with minimal passenger loads. These inefficiencies have further eroded the airline’s financial health, prompting the government to take decisive action.

In addition to addressing the immediate financial and operational challenges, the government is also looking at long-term solutions to ensure the sustainability of Air Sénégal. This includes resizing the airline’s network and fleet to align with actual demand and financial capabilities. Strategic partnerships are also being explored as a means to bolster the airline’s resources and expertise. The government has called for a mechanism to restore the airline’s equity, potentially involving an injection of at least 16 billion FCFA, to stabilize its financial foundation.

The situation at Air Sénégal is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by national carriers in Africa, many of which struggle with similar issues of debt, operational inefficiencies, and market competition. However, it also presents an opportunity for the airline to reinvent itself and emerge stronger. By focusing on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and strategic partnerships, Air Sénégal can position itself as a key player in the African aviation market.

For African travel industry professionals, the developments at Air Sénégal highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. The airline’s recovery plan, if successfully implemented, could serve as a blueprint for other carriers in the region facing similar issues. It also underscores the need for robust governance and strategic planning to navigate the complexities of the aviation industry.

As the 30-day deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Senegalese government and Air Sénégal’s management to see how they address these challenges. The outcome will not only determine the future of the airline but also have broader implications for Senegal’s connectivity, tourism, and economic growth. For now, the clock is ticking, and the pressure is on to deliver a viable solution that ensures the airline’s survival and long-term success.