Key Highlights
Planning a trip to Senegal? Here’s what you need to know about flying into Dakar.
- Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is the new international airport and primary gateway to Dakar, Senegal.
- It replaced the older Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport, which now handles mostly cargo and charter flights.
- The airport is a major hub for the national carrier, Air Senegal, connecting Africa to Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.
- Located 43 km east of downtown Dakar, it offers various transportation options to the city.
- You can find numerous international and regional airlines operating from this modern facility.
Overview of Dakar’s Airports
When you fly into Senegal’s capital, you will arrive at Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS). This modern facility serves as the primary hub for all international and most domestic passenger flights, replacing the city’s former main airport. Opened in 2017, it was designed to handle the growing number of visitors to Dakar and the wider region.
The older airport, Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR), previously known as Dakar-Yoff, now serves a different purpose. Understanding the roles of both airports will help you navigate your journey smoothly. Let’s explore the specifics of each airport to give you a clear picture.
Blaise Diagne International Airport: Official Name and Location
The official name of Dakar’s main airport is Blaise Diagne International Airport, or Aéroport international Blaise-Diagne in French. Its IATA code is DSS. Have you ever wondered about the person it was named after? The airport honors Blaise Diagne, who made history in 1914 as the first black African elected to the French Parliament, a significant figure in Senegalese history.
This new international airport is not located in the city center. You’ll find it approximately 43 kilometers (about 27 miles) east of downtown Dakar, near the town of Diass in the Thiès Region. This location was chosen to accommodate a larger, more modern facility away from the congestion of the capital.
The move from the old airport to this new site was a major step in modernizing Senegal’s aviation infrastructure. This airport is designed to be a key hub in West Africa, connecting the continent with destinations across the globe. Its strategic location and modern design ensure a more efficient travel experience for passengers.
Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport: Past and Present Roles
So, what is the difference between the new airport and the old one? Before December 2017, all international flights to Dakar landed at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR). Named after Senegal’s first president, this airport was originally known as Dakar-Yoff International Airport and was situated much closer to the city in the suburb of Yoff.
For decades, it was a critical stopover point for flights between Europe, the Americas, and Africa. It even served as a refueling stop for the Concorde and was once a designated Space Shuttle landing site. However, as air traffic grew, the airport became too small to handle the demand, leading to the construction of Blaise Diagne International.
Today, Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport has a new role. It no longer serves as the main passenger hub for Dakar. Instead, its operations are focused on cargo services, charter flights, and a growing number of domestic routes operated by Air Senegal, helping to connect Dakar with other regions within the country.
Airlines and Destinations Serving Dakar
Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is a bustling hub connecting Senegal with the world. Do you want to know which airlines you can fly? The airport hosts a wide array of international and regional carriers, making it a key access point for travel throughout Africa and beyond.
As the home base for Air Senegal, the airport facilitates numerous routes across the continent. It also welcomes major airlines from Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Below, we’ll look at some of the major international airlines you can find at DSS and explore the regional operations that make it a critical African travel hub.
Major International Carriers at Blaise Diagne
You have plenty of choices when flying internationally to or from Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport. The airport is served by a robust network of major international carriers, connecting Senegal to key global cities. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, you can find direct or convenient one-stop flights to your destination.
These airlines provide extensive connectivity, linking Dakar with hubs in Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. This makes travel to Senegal more accessible than ever before. You can easily book flights from major cities like Paris, New York, or Dubai.
Some of the prominent international airlines operating at DSS include:
- Air France (Paris–Charles de Gaulle)
- Delta Air Lines (New York–JFK)
- Emirates (Dubai–International)
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul)
- Brussels Airlines (Brussels)
Regional Flights and Air Senegal Operations
For travel within Africa, Dakar Blaise Diagne is an essential gateway. Air Senegal, the national airline, uses the airport as its primary hub to operate an expanding network of regional flights. This connects Dakar to numerous West African capitals, facilitating seamless travel across the region.
Planning a multi-city trip in Africa? Air Senegal and other regional carriers make it simple. Airlines like Transair, Air Côte d’Ivoire, and ASKY Airlines also offer frequent flights, strengthening the airport’s position as a central point for intra-African journeys.
Here are a few of the many regional destinations you can fly to from Dakar:
- Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Bamako, Mali
- Banjul, The Gambia
- Praia, Cabo Verde
Transportation to and from Dakar Airport
Since Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport is located about 43 km from the city, figuring out your transportation in advance is a smart move. Luckily, you have several options to get to and from downtown Dakar, catering to different budgets and preferences. You can choose between taxis, airport shuttles, and public transit.
Are you looking for the fastest route or the most budget-friendly option? Each mode of transport offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and speed. Let’s break down the details of taxi and shuttle services, as well as the public transit connections available to you.
Taxi, Shuttle, and Ride-Hailing Options
Getting from the international airport to your accommodation in Dakar is straightforward. Taxis are readily available just outside the terminal and offer a direct route to the city. For a hassle-free experience, it’s always a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, as meters are not always used.
Another popular option is the airport shuttle. Dedicated shuttle buses run between the airport and various points in downtown Dakar. These are often more affordable than taxis and provide a comfortable ride. You can typically find information about shuttle schedules and ticket counters inside the arrivals hall.
For those who prefer app-based services, ride-hailing is also an option in Dakar. While the compiled information doesn’t specify which companies operate, using such services can provide price transparency.
- Official Taxis: Available 24/7 at the airport’s designated taxi ranks.
- Airport Shuttles: Regular bus services connecting the airport to the city center.
- Ride-Hailing: Check local app availability for another convenient choice.
Public Transit Connections and Parking Information
If you’re interested in public transportation, Senegal is developing a modern rail link to connect Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport with the city. The Train Express Regional (TER) is a project designed to offer a fast and efficient commute. The first phase, connecting downtown Dakar to Diamniadio, is already operational.
As of early 2023, the extension of the railway line and the station that will directly serve the new international airport are still under construction. Once complete, the TER will provide a fantastic public transit option for travelers. For now, airport shuttle buses remain the primary form of dedicated public transportation.
The airport also provides ample short-term and long-term parking for those driving their own vehicles. The parking areas are secure and located conveniently near the terminals.
| Transportation Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle (DDD) | Connects the airport to key locations in Dakar, including the old airport and city center. |
| Train Express Regional (TER) | A rail link connecting Dakar to Diamniadio. The airport extension is currently under construction. |
Pre-Flight Planning and Airport Tips
A smooth departure from Dakar Blaise Diagne starts with good pre-flight planning. To avoid any last-minute stress, it’s wise to confirm your flight details and recommended arrival time well in advance. Keeping an eye on your flight status and allowing plenty of time to get to the airport can make all the difference.
Do you know how early you should arrive for your flight? The timing can vary depending on whether you are flying internationally or domestically. Knowing the airport’s recommendations helps ensure you have enough time for check-in, security, and immigration. Let’s look at the suggested arrival times.
Suggested Arrival Times for International vs. Domestic Flights
Are you wondering how early you should get to Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport for your flight? The general rule is to arrive earlier for international flights than for domestic ones. This gives you ample time to navigate check-in, drop off your luggage, and pass through security and immigration without feeling rushed.
For international travel, most airlines and airport authorities recommend arriving at least three hours before your scheduled departure. This buffer is especially important during peak travel seasons, as queues for check-in and security can be longer. It also gives you time to relax or do some last-minute shopping.
For domestic flights within Senegal, you don’t need quite as much time. Arriving 90 minutes to two hours ahead of your flight is usually sufficient.
- International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
- Regional African Flights: Aim for 2-3 hours before departure.
- Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Booking and Flight Information
Securing your flight to or from Dakar is the first step in your travel plans. Booking tickets is easy, with options available through airline websites, travel agencies, and online booking platforms. Whether you’re flying with Air Senegal or an international carrier, you can find competitive fares and convenient schedules.
Once you’ve booked, how do you stay updated on your flight details? It’s crucial to know where to find real-time flight information, including departure and arrival times. Let’s explore how to book your tickets and where to find live flight status updates online.
How to Book Tickets with Air Senegal and Other Airlines
Booking tickets with Air Senegal and other airlines is straightforward and user-friendly. Start by visiting the new website for Air Senegal, which offers detailed information on flight options from Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport to various destinations. You can easily track flight times and browse charter flights as well. For other airlines, popular booking platforms provide comprehensive choices, including direct routes to Europe and connections to cities like Bamako. Consider booking in advance to secure the best deals!
Where to Find Up-to-Date Flight Schedules and Status Online
How can you track your flight in real time? To get the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules for Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport, your best sources are the official airport and airline websites. The airport’s official website, dakaraeroport.com, provides live flight status for both arrivals and departures.
This lets you track flight times, check for delays, and confirm gate information right from your phone or computer. Similarly, the website of the airline you are flying with, such as Air Senegal, will have a dedicated section for checking your flight’s status. This is the most reliable way to get live updates directly from the source.
Can you check live flight status for Dakar airport online? Yes, you absolutely can. These online tools are invaluable for travelers and for those picking up arriving passengers.
- Official Airport Website: Visit www.dakaraeroport.com for live arrival and departure boards.
- Airline Websites and Apps: Check the specific airline you are flying with for the most direct status updates.
Conclusion
Dakar’s airports serve as a gateway to the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Senegal’s capital. Whether you’re arriving at Blaise Diagne International Airport or exploring the historical significance of Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport, knowing what to expect can enhance your travel experience. From the variety of airlines connecting you to international and regional destinations to the transportation options available for seamless travel within the city, proper pre-flight planning makes all the difference. Don’t forget to check the latest flight schedules and booking options to ensure a smooth journey. If you’re ready to embark on your Senegal adventure, get a free consultation to help plan your trip today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get from Dakar airport to downtown Dakar?
You can get from Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport to downtown Dakar by taxi, airport shuttle, or public transportation. Taxis offer a direct route, while dedicated shuttle buses provide a more affordable option. The Train Express Regional (TER) will also connect to the airport in the future.
What facilities and passenger services are available at Blaise Diagne International Airport?
Blaise Diagne International Airport offers modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange services, and VIP lounges. You’ll also find airline check-in counters, baggage services, and information desks to assist you. The airport is designed to provide a comfortable experience for all passengers traveling through Dakar.
How early should I arrive for my international flight at Dakar airport?
For an international flight from Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport, it is recommended to arrive at least three hours before your scheduled departure. This allows sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and passing through immigration and security checks without any rush, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.