Senegal Airlines intends to acquire six Airbus planes comprising four A320 family aircraft and two A330 airplanes.

The A320 family can fly up to 185 passengers through 3,700nm at speeds of up to Mach 0.82, while the A330s fly 335 passengers up to 6,750nm at Mach 0.86.

Senegal Urban and Regional Planning, Infrastructure and Air Transport International Cooperation senior state minister Karim Wade said the operational efficiency and passenger comfort offered by the A320s and A330s would enable the airline to become a key player in the African aviation market.

The carrier will replace Air Senegal International and launch services in early 2010 from its hub in Dakar to destinations in Africa and Europe.