Senegal: Blaise Diagne International Airport to open December 7

Event

Service will officially begin at Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), serving the capital city of Dakar, on Thursday, December 7. Officials will open the airport at 12:00 (local time) and all flights to and from Dakar will begin service through the airport from 14:35. At that time, all commercial flight operations will stop at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR). Some flight disruptions are possible as the transition to the new airport begins.

Some local residents have criticized the new airport, claiming that they are not being compensated properly for their proximity to the airport and are being actively excluded from airport jobs. Protests and associated transportation delays may occur around the opening of the airport.

Context

Blaise Diagne International Airport is expected to serve 10 million travelers per year once fully operational. It is located approximately 40 km (25 mi) east of Dakar. 

Advice

Potentially affected travelers are advised to confirm their flight status prior to departure for the airport and contact their airline for more information.

Additionally, individuals in Senegal are advised to avoid all protests or demonstrations as a precaution.