Air Sénégal has successfully concluded a long-standing international dispute with the American leasing group Carlyle, marking a significant milestone in the restructuring of its fleet. The resolution, finalized in Dakar, brings an end to months of legal and financial tensions linked to the termination of lease agreements for four aircraft.

End of legal proceedings in Dakar

Under the leadership of its Managing Director, Tidiane Ndiaye, Air Sénégal secured the dismissal of all judicial proceedings initiated against it in the High Commercial Court of Dakar. This landmark decision follows the signing of a comprehensive settlement agreement between the national carrier and Carlyle, effectively putting an end to the dispute before Senegalese courts.

The agreement, formalized on May 4, 2026, outlines the terms of the resolution and was subsequently ratified by the court on June 25, 2026. This development paves the way for the closure of the case in Senegal, with both parties now focused on implementing the agreed terms.

Global resolution in sight

The settlement reached in Dakar is expected to have a ripple effect beyond Senegal’s borders. Carlyle has indicated its intention to withdraw the legal proceedings it had initiated in New York courts, which could lead to a full closure of the international dispute. This coordinated approach underscores the commitment of both parties to resolving the matter amicably and without further escalation.

Settlement terms and financial commitments

The agreement includes the near-complete settlement of outstanding financial obligations owed by Air Sénégal. These include unpaid lease payments and maintenance reserves for the four aircraft—two Airbus A319s and two Airbus A321s—that were returned to Carlyle. The national carrier acknowledged these liabilities and has now fulfilled them in accordance with the terms of the conciliation protocol.

Why Air Sénégal chose to terminate the leases

The decision to end the lease agreements was driven by a combination of financial and operational factors. Air Sénégal’s management, led by Tidiane Ndiaye, determined that the cost of leasing and maintaining these aircraft had become unsustainable. The aircraft were also plagued by recurring technical issues, which posed significant operational risks and threatened to exacerbate the airline’s financial challenges. By terminating these leases, the company aimed to streamline its operations and reduce its financial burden.

Initially, Carlyle responded to the termination by pursuing legal action against Air Sénégal. However, both parties later engaged in constructive negotiations, leading to the mutually beneficial settlement that has now been finalized.