TERAANGA STARTS HERE

For those travelling to and from Senegal, the Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport is now the country’s main hub for worldwide travel.

After 10 years of development and an investment of around €566 million, the airport became operational in December 2017, replacing the Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport.

Designed with an initial capacity of 3 million passengers a year (almost double the 1.7 million annual traffic handled by Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport), it is hoped that by 2035, the airport will extend its capacity to 10 million passengers per year. To accommodate, a second passenger terminal and runway is planned.

The international airport boasts a 42,0001 passenger terminal with six gates. Further to that, it offers a 12,8001 cargo terminal which can handle 50,000 tonnes of freight.

With six years of operation now under its wing, the airport’s management company employs 600 people, as well as 1000 staff at its ground handling subsidiary and 100 maintenance technicians.

CEO Askin Demir outlines the airport’s success to date, as well as its plans for growth.

From Grounded to Geared-Up

In 2017, no one could predict the unravelling of the world just a few years later due to the pandemic. So, it was rather unfortunate timing for the new airport, which had only been established for two years before having to ground flights and close its doors.

“We used this time wisely, focussing on future-proofing the business for reopening,” explained Askin, “following government guidance, all of our staff remained employed, with 50% working from home. During this time we centre our attention on staff training and certification for the airport”.

Bouncing back from the pandemic, in 2022 the airport launched six new flight destinations and has seen a 5% increase on pre-pandemic statistics.

“Despite its obvious challenges, what the pandemic has proven is the strength of the aviation community, the airport is well equipped to face challenges, and our business partners are focussed on seeking opportunities,” said Askin.

Bracing for the Future

With the world and its travellers back to BAU, Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport saw 2.6 million passengers through its doors in 2022. With a strong return post-pandemic, the business is now focussed on three main growth areas.