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With capacity for 10 million passengers and equipped to receive giant planes such as the Airbus A380, the new airport in Africa replaced a terminal that operated with congestion and is now a reference in modern infrastructure.
An airport that has emerged from the shadows to shine as a jewel of African infrastructure? This is the story of Blaise-Diagne International Airport (AIBD), which has put Senegal on the global aviation map and eclipsed its predecessor, the historic Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport.
The history of the old airport in West Africa
Léopold Sédar Senghor Airport, named after to Senegal’s first president, it was for decades the main entry point for world leaders and millions of passengers. Located in the heart of Dakar, it was more than just an airport: it was a symbol of hospitality and national pride. Imagine a red carpet rolled out for the likes of George Bush and Olaf Scholz—that was how Senegal welcomed the world.
However, over time, urban growth and increased demand turned the airport into an area of constant congestion. Crowded runways, lack of space and difficult access highlighted the urgent need for a more modern and efficient solution.
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The vision of the future: Blaise-Diagne International Airport
In 2017, Senegal opened Blaise-Diagne International Airport, a massive project costing $480 million. Located 38 km from Dakar, the new hub covers 4.500 hectares and is five times larger than the old airport. But it’s not just the size that has changed. The infrastructure is designed to handle up to 10 million passengers per year, showing the country’s ambition to become one of Africa’s largest aviation hubs.
Equipped to receive aircraft such as the Airbus A380, the Blaise-Diagne brings cutting-edge technology and modern services that have transformed the experience of passengers. The airport has set clear goals: to increase the flow of tourists, attract investment and position Senegal as a strategic point of global connectivity.
Regional and global impacts
With the new airport, Senegal has strengthened its position as a transport hub in West Africa. Air connectivity has improved significantly, facilitating trade and attracting investors who see the economic potential of the region.
The tourism sector has also reaped benefits. The airport now receives more international visitors, boosting hotels, restaurants and cultural activities. It’s like opening a bigger door for the world to explore the beauty of Senegal.
Comparison
While Léopold Sédar Senghor used to handle 2 million passengers per year, Blaise-Diagne has already exceeded 2,9 million and has the capacity to grow even further. In addition, the new airport can handle larger and more modern aircraft, something that its predecessor could not.
Today, the two airports play different roles. Blaise-Diagne is the main passenger hub, while Senghor has been converted into a military and cargo base but is expected to resume civilian flights in 2024, complementing the country's aviation system.
The construction of Blaise-Diagne Airport was a milestone not only for Senegal but for the whole of West Africa. It symbolizes progress, modernity and vision of the future. With the reopening of the Léopold Sédar Senghor to civilian traffic, the country can further balance its operations and consolidate its role on the global stage.
Brazil needs this kind of real and true information about Africa. This changes the negative interpretation that is made and spread about our continent which, like it or not, is the cradle of humanity. And seeing is believing.
. This article is very pertinent. I am proud of my country Senegal. Congratulations 👏👏👏👏 for this honest and positive initiative. Good, ethical, critical and serious journalism assumes its responsibilities to satisfactorily fulfill its commandments and precepts to show the truth. Africa must be looked at with a more honest and sincere eye by the Brazilian media. Bravo Bruno Telles for your beautiful work.
Journalistic..
Congratulations, Bruno Teles!!
Finally, some realistic and exciting news about Africa. Africa presented with prospects for growth and connection with the world. We want more news along these lines. Cheers!!