DAKAR, 24 May 2025 — United Airlines has officially launched its inaugural nonstop year-round service between Dakar, Senegal and Washington D.C., marking a historic first for the airline as it expands its footprint in Francophone West Africa. The new route positions United as the only airline directly connecting Senegal’s capital with the U.S. capital, a move celebrated at Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) with the arrival of flight UA460.
The new route will operate three times a week, with Boeing 767-300 aircraft offering United PolarisSM business class, United Premium PlusSM, and Economy seating options. Departures from Dakar are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, with return flights from Washington D.C. every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday.
Strategic Expansion Across Africa
The Dakar–Washington D.C. service marks United’s sixth destination on the African continent, building on its growing network which includes Marrakesh, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Accra, and Lagos. This launch follows last year’s seasonal Marrakesh to New York/Newark service and aligns with United’s record-breaking international expansion plan.
“We are excited to launch United’s first ever service from Senegal, further expanding our route network from Africa to the U.S.,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. “Dakar offers rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches and easy access to West Africa—an ideal addition to our Africa portfolio.”
A Gateway to Growth and Connectivity
The significance of the route was echoed by Askin Demir, General Director of LAS, who welcomed United to Senegal. “By welcoming United Airlines to Blaise Diagne Airport, we are opening a new route for connections to America,” he said. “This service enhances our commercial offer and reinforces Senegal’s status as a regional hub in West Africa.”
Michael Raynor, U.S. Ambassador to Senegal, praised the route’s potential to deepen ties between the two nations. “United’s entry into Francophone West Africa, with Senegal as its first destination, speaks volumes about the potential seen in this region. This new route will make it easier for more Americans to discover Senegal—a land of cultural vibrancy and boundless opportunity.”
Comfortable, Connected Travel
The service is operated with United’s Boeing 767-300 aircraft, featuring:
- United PolarisSM business class with 30 lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and Therabody wellness products.
- United Premium PlusSM with 24 seats offering more legroom, greater recline, and enhanced amenities.
- Economy PlusSM and Economy cabins featuring upgraded legroom, complimentary dining, drinks, and on-demand entertainment.
Passengers arriving in Washington D.C. will have seamless connections to over 65 destinations across the Americas via United’s hub at Dulles International Airport.
Part of a Broader Expansion
United’s Africa expansion is part of a broader global initiative this summer, which includes five new transatlantic destinations from New York/Newark—Nuuk, Bilbao, Palermo, Madeira Island, and Faro—and three new routes from Washington D.C., including Nice, Venice, and the new year-round service to Dakar.
With more international destinations than any other U.S. carrier, United remains the world’s largest airline by available seat miles, operating more than 800 daily international flights this summer to 140 destinations, including 32 exclusive to the airline.
Flight Schedule: Dakar (DSS) – Washington Dulles (IAD)
- UA460: DSS → IAD | 09:05–14:05 | Mon/Wed/Sat
- UA461: IAD → DSS | 18:30–07:00+1 | Tues/Fri/Sun
All times local and subject to change.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: UNITED AIRLINES
