Air Senegal has selected SITAONAIR to deploy high-speed inflight connectivity (IFC) on the carrier’s new A330neo aircraft – making Air Senegal the first airline on the African continent to activate GX Aviation passenger connectivity onboard.
Under the deal, SITAONAIR is activating its Mobile ONAIR and Internet ONAIR inflight connectivity solutions – via Link ONAIR over Inmarsat’s GX Aviation network – on Air Senegal’s new A330neo. Passengers can now enjoy cabin connectivity across Air Senegal’s Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy offerings, on routes connecting West Africa with Europe.
With SITAONAIR’s Internet ONAIR solution over GX Aviation, Air Senegal passengers can access a seamless inflight connection. Mobile ONAIR will give passengers a mobile connectivity experience, providing them with the opportunity to make calls and send texts inflight.
Philippe Bohn, CEO of Air Senegal, says: “We at Air Senegal are extremely proud to say we are leading inflight innovation in Africa’s aviation industry, and delivering, thanks to our carefully-considered partnership with SITAONAIR. With our new A330neo fleet, we can connect passengers from Europe with the heart of our country within six hours. These passengers have high standards, needs and expectations when it comes to inflight connectivity and Air Senegal is ready to empower them, thanks to SITAONAIR’s support and solutions.”
David Lavorel, CEO, SITAONAIR, says: “We are pleased to support and pioneer the inflight connectivity landscape, in what is a growing innovation area in Africa. SITAONAIR’s knowledge and expertise, both in establishing aircraft connectivity in burgeoning markets and in working alongside African telecommunications organisations and governments, makes us perfectly placed to enable all of Africa’s airlines to realise their connectivity ambitions. Our telecommunications experts have been at the heart of the significant work done with regulators and we look forward to advancing further for the benefit of the region.”
With a growing demand for connectivity from Africa’s young population and a change in the overarching aviation landscape, Air Senegal’s new inflight connectivity offering comes at a crucial moment for economic growth. Senegal’s new flag carrier is planning to expand its footprint by connecting 2 million passengers on routes between Dakar and Paris, and drive innovation in the West African market.
