Air Senegal is planning to convert its A220-300 orders to A321neo citing technical challenges with Pratt & Whitney engines. The airline currently has eight A220s on order but only received one, which is currently in storage. The aircraft were supposed to be delivered by the end of 2023.
The decision to covert the order fast-tracked when a delegation from Air Senegal went to France for the Paris Air Show and met the Airbus team to negotiate the deal.
The carrier also had an agreement with global lessor Macquarie AirFinance to lease five A220-300s. However, the airline announced at the end of February 2023 that it would be giving up the lease agreement in search of another aircraft type.
Air Senegal has selected A321neo as a suitable replacement over the A220s as its long fuselage offers more cabin space and comfort, and will aid in Air Senegal’s future growth prospects.