Senegal’s flag carrier has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330-900neo from Airbus’ production line in Toulouse. Air Senegal is the first carrier in Africa to fly the next-generation Airbus aircraft.
The aircraft will be used on medium to long-haul flights from its base at Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport and subsequently, on the airline’s daily Dakar to Paris service.
Prior to launching its passenger service, the Dakar-based airline used the delivery flight as an opportunity to operate a goodwill flight transporting medical equipment, toys, adult and children’s clothing, and educational books for those living in poor environments.
More than 13 tons of humanitarian freight donated by Aviation Sans Frontières, L’Institut Universitaire du Cancer-Toulouse Oncopole and La Chaîne de l’Espoir were delivered as part of this goodwill flight from Toulouse on the Airbus A330neo.
“We are honoured to be working with the Airbus Foundation and its partners to perform this goodwill flight. The acceptance of our latest A330neo is made more meaningful as we transport humanitarian goods to those in need,” Philippe Bohn, CEO of Air Senegal, said in a statement.
Currently, TAP Air Portugal is the primary user of the Airbus A330neo. Although the airline has only ordered a total of one Airbus A330neo, it could be eyeing a larger order based on the potential success of its first Airbus A330neo.