On Friday, October 12, 2024, Sierra Leone reintroduced its national airline, “Air Sierra Leone,” marking the return of a domestic airline after the closure of “Sierra Leone Airlines” in 2006.

For nearly two decades, both local and international travelers in Sierra Leone relied on foreign airlines from countries such as Morocco, Belgium, and the UK. Airlines like Air Maroc, Brussels Airlines, and Asky dominated Sierra Leone’s airspace, operating flights in and out of Freetown’s Lungi Airport.

The official unveiling of Air Sierra Leone was led by the country’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, in Freetown. Turay highlighted the revival of the aviation sector as a major step forward, noting President Bio’s efforts in reestablishing a national airline.

Air Sierra Leone will operate a Boeing 737 with a 50-seat capacity. The airline, which will initially operate under a partnership with a Nigerian airline, is set to expand its services, offering flights to destinations across Africa and Europe.

Historically, Sierra Leone had its first airline in 1958 as part of the West African Airways Corporation, a collaboration between Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, and The Gambia. The airline expanded to destinations like London, Monrovia, and Amsterdam before it ceased operations due to mismanagement in 2006.

The newly signed agreement allows Air Sierra Leone to operate flights between London and Freetown, with additional destinations to follow. The airline is set to begin full operations in December, with its inaugural flight from Lungi Airport to London’s Gatwick Airport.

Public reception to the airline’s return has been mixed, with some citizens excited about the growth in the aviation sector, while others express concern over potential ticket prices. The airline’s CEO assured the public that ticket costs would be competitive, with an initial promotional offer of $750 for round-trip flights between Freetown and London.

The airline is expected to operate flights to several West African countries, including Liberia, The Gambia, and Ivory Coast, and expand into European routes. Air Sierra Leone plans to introduce additional aircraft with varying seat capacities as operations grow.