Air Senegal resolves aircraft lease dispute with Carlyle group

The long-standing legal dispute between Air Senegal and US-based aircraft lessor Carlyle has reached a significant resolution. After months of negotiations, the Senegalese national carrier and its former partner agreed on a settlement to end their conflict over the termination of a lease agreement involving four aircraft.

Air Senegal’s Managing Director, Tidiane Ndiaye, secured the dismissal of the case filed before the Dakar High Commercial Court. This breakthrough followed the signing of a mutual agreement by both parties. The resolution also extends to the parallel legal proceedings initiated by Carlyle in New York courts, paving the way for a complete closure of the dispute.

The settlement stems from an agreement finalized on May 4, 2026, between Air Senegal and the aircraft owners. The conciliation minutes, reflecting the terms of the deal, were officially approved on June 25, 2026. Under this arrangement, Air Senegal has nearly settled all outstanding payments, including unpaid leases and maintenance reserves up to the aircraft return date—liabilities the airline had acknowledged.

The controversy involved four leased aircraft: two Airbus A319s and two Airbus A321s, which the new Air Senegal leadership decided not to retain in its fleet. Industry observers noted two key factors behind this decision: the high cost of leasing and maintenance, coupled with persistent technical issues affecting the aircraft. Continuing their operation was seen as a financial burden that could further strain the airline’s already fragile financial health.

Despite the lease termination, tensions persisted as Carlyle pursued legal action against Air Senegal. However, renewed discussions between the parties led to an out-of-court settlement, averting prolonged litigation and securing a mutually acceptable resolution.