By Sallieu S. Kanu
Air Sierra Leone Limited will introduce a new thrice-weekly passenger flight to Gatwick Airport, London from the Freetown International Airport, commencing December 2, 2024.
The management of Air Sierra Leone made this disclosure in collaboration with the government of Sierra Leone at an unveiling ceremony of the airline on Saturday in Freetown.
The airline carries the Sierra Leone flag. Under the terms of the agreement, Xejet which provides technical expertise to the airline, will operate regional and international flights from Lungi International Airport in Freetown.
The launch of Air Sierra Leone marks a significant milestone for the country as it strives to strengthen its aviation sector and improve regional connectivity.
The commencement of flight will increase international confidence in Sierra Leone, boost tourism and trade, and promote economic development, according to the Chief Executive Officer of Air Sierra Leone, Emmanuel Iza.
He thanked President Bio for his leadership and other senior government officials for their roles in ensuring the registration of the carrier in the country.
He said that the company is not just an airline but a symbol of national pride and reflects a deep sense of hope to every Sierra Leonean.
“Our mission is to connect Sierra Leone with the world,” he said.
According to our business plan, the company aims to consolidate the west coast introducing three flights via Abidjan, Monrovia, Nigeria, Ghana, Banjul, Conakry, and Dakar.
The CEO said the thrice-weekly services to Gatwick Airport will be operated using a modern Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Foday Turay said that it is President Bio’s vision to see Sierra Leone skies covered by airlines.
He said that the government aims to bring in more airlines to promote economic growth.
Director General of Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority Musayero Barrie said that it is the responsibility of the Aviation Authority to ensure that the airline complies with international safety regulations.
She that the airline met the strict guidelines of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority before they were permitted to operate in Sierra Leone. “They have gone through the registration process, and we are happy to have them in Sierra Leone,” she said.
She said that the aircraft the airline will be using for its UK route is owned by a UK Company and has passed the safety and security standards of the UK authorities.
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah said that it is the vision of President Bio to ensure that the private sector thrives.