Air Sénégal resolves dispute with Carlyle over aircraft leases

End of a lengthy dispute between Air Sénégal and Carlyle

Air Sénégal has successfully resolved a protracted legal battle with Carlyle, a leading American aircraft leasing firm, over the termination of lease agreements involving four aircraft. The resolution, finalized in Dakar, marks the closure of a contentious chapter that had strained relations between the two parties for months.

The agreement follows the judicial withdrawal of the case initiated by Air Sénégal against Carlyle before the Dakar Commercial Court. This milestone was achieved after both sides reached a settlement protocol on 4 May 2026, which was formally approved by the court on 25 June 2026. The conciliation protocol outlines the terms of the resolution, including the full settlement of outstanding payments.

The dispute centered on two Airbus A319 jets and two Airbus A321 aircraft that Carlyle had leased to Air Sénégal. The national carrier’s new management team, led by Tidiane Ndiaye, decided to return the planes, citing prohibitive operational costs and recurring maintenance issues. The financial strain of these aircraft, coupled with their technical unreliability, had become unsustainable for the airline.

Initially, the termination of the lease agreements did not bring an end to the conflict. Carlyle pursued legal action against Air Sénégal, prompting the airline to defend its position in court. The renewed negotiations eventually paved the way for a mutually agreeable settlement, averting prolonged litigation in both Senegal and the United States.

Key terms of the settlement

• The agreement includes the full payment of overdue lease fees and maintenance reserves, which Air Sénégal had acknowledged as valid obligations.
• The resolution also prevents further legal proceedings in American courts, where Carlyle had filed a separate case.
• Both parties have committed to honoring the terms of the conciliation protocol, ensuring a clean break from the dispute.

The resolution underscores the importance of dialogue in resolving complex commercial disputes. For Air Sénégal, it provides much-needed clarity as the airline continues to restructure its operations and fleet. The agreement also reflects a pragmatic approach to financial challenges, prioritizing stability over prolonged legal battles.