West African carrier Air Senegal has placed an order for nine Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
The deal is Air Senegal’s first order placed with Boeing in over 20 years. It is also the airline’s largest fleet purchase to date.
The carrier said the new 737 MAX 8s will allow it to expand regionally and internationally. It is looking at new destinations in Europe, as well as routes from Dakar to the Middle East and the Americas.
“This order is part of Air Sénégal’s strategy to strengthen and modernize its fleet in order to support the expansion of its regional and intercontinental network and reinforce Dakar’s position as a leading aviation hub in West Africa,” CEO Tidiane Ndiaye said in a statement.
The 737-8 can carry up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration. The aircraft type is popular in Africa and is helping carriers meet rising air travel demand.
Air Senegal will also benefit from the 737 MAX’s operational efficiencies. The aircraft uses less fuel and creates 20% less emissions than the aircraft it replaces. There is also a lower noise footprint.
