Air Sénégal resolves aircraft dispute with Carlyle group in Dakar settlement

Historic resolution brings closure to Air Sénégal’s legal battle

The long-standing legal dispute between Air Sénégal and the American leasing company Carlyle has reached a definitive conclusion through an out-of-court settlement finalized in Dakar. After months of negotiations, the national carrier and its former partner agreed on a mutually acceptable resolution, putting an end to a contentious issue involving four leased aircraft.

The breakthrough came following a conciliation protocol signed on May 4, 2026, which was later ratified by the Dakar Commercial Court on June 25, 2026. This agreement led to the withdrawal of all legal proceedings initiated by both parties—including a case Carlyle had filed in New York courts—effectively closing the international dispute once and for all.

Financial obligations fulfilled under the settlement

Under the terms of the settlement, Air Sénégal, led by its managing director Tidiane Ndiaye, has settled nearly all outstanding payments related to unpaid lease fees and maintenance reserves up to the date of aircraft return. The company had previously acknowledged these liabilities, and the resolution now provides a clear path forward.

Decision to return aircraft driven by economic and operational concerns

The dispute centered on four aircraft—two Airbus A319s and two Airbus A321s—leased to Air Sénégal by Carlyle. The company’s new management team, under Ndiaye’s leadership, decided against renewing these leases, citing several compelling reasons. The high operational costs, including lease and maintenance expenses, combined with recurring technical failures, made continued operation financially unsustainable. Maintaining these aircraft would have placed additional strain on the carrier’s already fragile financial situation.

The initial termination of the lease agreement did not immediately resolve the conflict. Carlyle pursued legal action against Air Sénégal, prompting a prolonged legal standoff. However, both sides eventually recognized the need for a pragmatic solution, leading to the negotiated settlement that has now brought the matter to a close.