Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian
Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport, once a bustling gateway in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, and a symbol of national pride, has been overshadowed by the country’s state-of-the-art aviation hub.
The former flagship airport, named after Senegal’s first president and celebrated poet, had served over two million passengers annually and hosted numerous world leaders, including former U.S. President George Bush and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. However, its location in Dakar’s congested urban core presented persistent challenges, from traffic jams to limited expansion potential.
Recognizing the need for modernization, Senegal inaugurated the Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) in late 2017. Situated 24 miles east of Dakar, the £465 million facility spans 4,500 hectares—five times the size of its predecessor. Designed to meet growing demands, the new airport boasts a capacity of 10 million passengers annually and welcomed 2.9 million travelers in 2023.
The AIBD, hailed as a “state-of-the-art infrastructure project” by West African civil engineer El Hadji Beye, features expanded terminals, upgraded runways, and the ability to accommodate modern aircraft like the Airbus A380. This strategic investment positions Senegal as a key aviation hub in the region.
While Blaise Diagne became the nation’s primary gateway, Senghor International transitioned to military use. After six years, it is set to reopen for civilian flights on January 15, 2024, while continuing its role as a freight hub.
This ambitious upgrade reflects Senegal’s broader vision of enhancing connectivity, facilitating tourism, and cementing its place in Africa’s competitive aviation market.
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