Driven by the increase in European traffic, the dynamism of freight and the increase of passengers both at departure and at arrival, Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) continues to rise. Between January and June 2026, the platform welcomed nearly 1.5 million passengers, reinforcing its role as an air hub in West Africa.
Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) welcomed 1,481,529 passengers in the first half of 2026, an increase of 4.3% over the same period in 2025. According to the statistics published by the platform manager, this growth concerns both arrivals and departures.
The airport recorded 687,305 passengers on arrival (+4.19%) and 720.840 at departure (+4.76 %), while direct traffic, which accounts for almost 95% of commercial traffic, reached 1,408.145 passengers (+4.48%). The number of transit passengers was 73.384, slightly up 0.84%.
The flow analysis confirms the predominance of connections with Europe, which remains the first AIBD market with 693,468 passengers, up 7.62%.
The African continent remains second with 581.971 passengers (+3.33%), illustrating Dakar's growing role as a platform for correspondence between West Africa, Europe and the rest of the world. This development is part of the strategy for enhancing air connectivity led by the Senegalese authorities and airport managers.
Air cargo also has a remarkable performance. Between January and June 2026, 22.3 million kilograms of goods transited through AIBD, an increase of 17.93 per cent over one year.
This increase is mainly supported by exports, which increased by 26.57 %, reflecting an increase in trade and logistics around the airport platform.
These results are taking place in a context where Senegal continues its efforts to consolidate its air sector. In particular, the authorities are working to strengthen AIBD and restructure Air Senegal, with projects such as the creation of Air Senegal Express, dedicated to domestic and sub-regional flights, and the establishment of new strategic partnerships.
Through these initiatives, the country aims to strengthen Dakar's position as an air hub and reference logistics hub in West Africa.
