In its drive to optimize costs and
deliver dispatch reliability from inception, start-up carrier,
Senegal Airlines has awarded a five year power-by-the-hour contract
for its first two A319 aircraft to AJ Walter Aviation. According to
AJW, the new African operator has purchased six Airbus aircraft for
its fleet and will take delivery of additional two this year.
Senegal Airlines inked a
multi-million dollar spares lease with AJW for components sited in
Dakar as well as a further contract for the provision of integrated
consumables management services. Generally, AJW will be a
significant partner in maintaining the operational efficiency of
the airline and streamlining their business model for sustained
growth and profitability.
"AJW has worked closely and
successfully with many airlines across the African continent for
more than 50 years," states AJW President, Mr. Christopher
Whiteside. "We have developed a flexible programme with Senegal
Airlines that is precisely geared to their needs as they develop
over the next five years and beyond. We have built our
reputation in the region on our willingness to adapt to local
operational and market demands and that is something AJW is able to
offer all operators, big or small."
Senegal Airlines started commercial
operations on January 25th to a number of West African countries,
including Mali, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso. The airline
plans to expand to include flights to Europe and North America. It
also aims to clinch 40% of the Dakar market, and take advantage of
Senegal's new airport outside Dakar which will be completed in
2012.