By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Air Sierra Leone has announced a major expansion of its flight network with the introduction of new international and regional routes aimed at strengthening connectivity between West Africa and the United Kingdom.
Starting in February, the national carrier will commence direct flights from Banjul in The Gambia to London Gatwick in the United Kingdom. The new service is expected to improve travel options for passengers while deepening economic, social, and cultural ties between the two regions.
In addition to the international route, Air Sierra Leone will also begin operating a new regional service from Freetown to Banjul. The route is designed to enhance travel convenience within the sub region by providing a faster and more reliable link between Sierra Leone and The Gambia.
The airline said the new routes form part of its wider strategy to expand its footprint and respond to growing demand for direct and efficient air travel. By reducing the need for multiple stopovers, the services are expected to save time for passengers and improve overall travel experience.
According to Air Sierra Leone, the expansion reflects its commitment to providing reliable, efficient, and accessible air transport while supporting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange across key destinations. The airline noted that improved air connectivity is essential for boosting regional integration and economic development.
Speaking on the development, the Group Chief Operating Officer at XE Jet Limited, the technical partner to Air Sierra Leone, Sukhjinder Mann, reaffirmed the airline’s dedication to continuous growth and customer satisfaction. He said the launch of the new routes demonstrates the airline’s determination to build a strong and sustainable network that meets the needs of travelers.
Mr Mann also highlighted the importance of regional integration, noting that the new services will make it easier for people to move across West Africa while strengthening links with international markets. He said Air Sierra Leone remains focused on delivering safe and dependable services as it continues to grow.
The announcement comes as Air Sierra Leone marks one year of successful operations. Over the past year, the airline has worked to rebuild confidence in air travel while steadily expanding its services. Management says the progress made so far reflects strong partnerships, careful planning, and a clear vision for the future.
Industry observers say the introduction of direct flights between The Gambia and the United Kingdom, along with the new Freetown to Banjul route, could have a positive impact on tourism and business travel. The routes are also expected to benefit members of the Sierra Leonean and Gambian diaspora by offering more direct travel options.
Air Sierra Leone says it will continue to explore opportunities to expand its network and improve service delivery. As the airline enters its second year of operations, it has reiterated its commitment to playing a key role in connecting Sierra Leone to the region and the wider world.
