In an exciting development for Sierra Leone’s aviation industry, the country’s Transport Minister has officially announced the launch of a new private airline, Air Sierra Leone, which is scheduled to make its inaugural flight on December 2. The first flight will be a six-hour journey from Freetown to London’s Gatwick Airport, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s air travel connectivity.
Unlike a national flag carrier, Air Sierra Leone is a private venture, designed to provide new travel options for passengers. Initially, the airline will operate under a UK Air Operating Certificate (AOC) while working towards securing its own Sierra Leonean AOC in the future.
The airline’s fleet will consist of three aircraft: two Boeing 737s with seating capacities of 189 and 149 passengers, respectively, and an Embraer aircraft designed for a more intimate flying experience, with a capacity of 50 seats. This diverse fleet is expected to cater to a wide range of passengers, offering both larger and smaller aircraft for various flight needs.
As Air Sierra Leone prepares for its official takeoff, this initiative is seen as a positive step towards expanding Sierra Leone’s air travel landscape and boosting the country’s connectivity with Europe.
