Air Senegal is discontinuing its New York to Freetown route via Dakar, effective September 19, 2024. The twice-weekly flights were launched in September 2021, offering a convenient connection between the US and Sierra Leone. The route was popular among travelers, particularly those with ties to West Africa.
Despite its perks, including a non-stop flight from New York to Dakar and an extra baggage allowance, the route struggled financially. Air Senegal operated the flights using a wet-leased aircraft due to Senegal’s lack of FAA Category 1 safety rating. This arrangement added to the operational costs, making it challenging for the airline to sustain the route.
The decision to end the route comes amid a government audit of state-owned companies, aiming to curb losses. Air Senegal, launched in 2018, has been losing money since its inception. The route’s discontinuation is seen as a move to stem the financial bleeding. The airline’s financial struggles have been a concern for the Senegalese government, which has been working to revamp the airline’s operations.
Passengers will now need to seek alternative routes to travel between the US and Sierra Leone. The discontinuation of the Air Senegal flights marks the end of a convenient option for travelers, leaving a gap in the market for other airlines to fill. Travelers can explore options with other carriers, such as Royal Air Maroc or Brussels Airlines, which offer connecting flights to Freetown.
The discontinuation of the New York-Freetown route is a significant development in the West African aviation market. As airlines continue to navigate the challenges of operating in the region, passengers will need to adapt to changing flight schedules and options. Air Senegal’s decision may pave the way for other airlines to fill the gap, offering new opportunities for travelers and the aviation industry as a whole.
