Air Sierra Leone to Inaugural Flight with XeJet as Operating Partner

Air Sierra Leone inaugural flight will begin on December 2, 2024, following its official launch by the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay.

At a press conference, Turay clarified that Air Sierra Leone, the chosen flag carrier, is privately owned rather than state-run. This clarification helped distinguish the airline’s ownership and its focus on private investment.

The inaugural flight will depart from London’s Gatwick Airport, heading to Freetown International Airport, on a six-hour journey. With the UK Air Operating Certificate (AOC) in hand, Air Sierra Leone is actively working towards securing a Sierra Leonean AOC.

The decision to cover Sierra Leonean airspace with African airlines is a direct result of a presidential directive, according to the Minister. Turay emphasized that this strategic move will strengthen the nation’s aviation sector.

Further details indicate that Nigerian-based Xejet Aviation Limited will serve as the preferred flag carrier. This partnership is the result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the government of Sierra Leone. Xejet will operate both regional and international flights from Freetown, extending the country’s aviation reach.

Air Sierra Leone inaugural flight will operate with a fleet of three aircraft, consisting of a 50-seat Embraer and two Boeing 737s, capable of carrying 189 and 149 passengers respectively. This diverse fleet will ensure flexible travel options for various routes and passenger volumes.

At the conference, Air Sierra Leone CEO Emmanuel Iza disclosed plans to expedite the airline’s entry into the United States market. “We initially estimated six to ten months to commence US flights, but we’re working to achieve this faster,” he said. Iza also assured that, despite the business-oriented nature of the venture, ticket prices would remain competitive. “While it is a business, and we must deliver returns to investors, our fares will still be affordable.”

Air Sierra Leone will offer a starting fare of US$999 for flights to London Gatwick, providing competitive pricing for travelers. Additionally, promotional fares will be available for as low as US$750, allowing passengers to save more on flights. These affordable options will make Air Sierra Leone an attractive choice for travelers during the airline’s initial operations.

Sierra Leone launched its first airline in 1958 with the formation of Sierra Leone Airways, marking a significant milestone. However, past attempts to establish a sustainable national carrier have not been successful, with challenges persisting. The most recent effort, Fly Salone, ceased operations on March 17, 2016, after struggling to maintain services.