Air Sierra Leone, the national carrier of Sierra Leone, has officially resumed scheduled flights between Lagos and Freetown after more than 15 years of inactivity. The airline has partnered with Nigerian airline XEJet, which provides both technical support and three operational aircraft, marking a significant step in revitalizing air travel between the two nations.
The inaugural flight, which took place on Wednesday, carried 36 passengers from Freetown to Lagos. This marks the first of the airline’s new schedule, which will see flights operated three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Air Sierra Leone’s General Manager, Edgard Lacle, expressed optimism for the future, stating that the flight frequency will increase as demand grows.
“We’re excited to bring Air Sierra Leone back to Nigeria,” Lacle said at the Lagos airport. “The connection between Sierra Leone and Nigeria is strong, particularly in trade, and we believe this will strengthen our ties even further. Our partnership with XEJet will ensure that we meet the needs of this market.”
The airline’s return to Nigeria signals a new era of connectivity, with both trade and tourism playing significant roles in the resurgence of the route. Lacle emphasized that the airline is prepared to adjust its services based on passenger demand, ensuring that the connection between the two countries continues to grow.
Iza Emmanuel, the Chief Executive Officer of XEJet, described the event as a historic moment, highlighting that it represents the “rebirth” of Air Sierra Leone in Nigeria. He expressed pride in the airline’s return after 15 years, calling it a symbol of hope, progress, and resilience for both Sierra Leone and Nigeria.
“After more than a decade, the Sierra Leonean flag is flying high once again,” Emmanuel said. “This event is a testament to the enduring friendship between our countries and the shared vision for growth and opportunity. We are excited to see how this partnership will flourish.”
The resumption of Air Sierra Leone’s operations marks a milestone for both countries, strengthening their ties while enhancing travel opportunities and economic cooperation. With strong foundations in place, the airline looks forward to contributing to the growth and development of the region’s aviation sector.
