Air Sierra Leone resumes Lagos-Freetown flights after 15 years

After over 15 years of inactivity, Sierra Leone’s national carrier, Air Sierra Leone, has resumed scheduled flight operations between Lagos, Nigeria, and Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The airline’s return was made possible through a partnership with Nigerian airline XEJet, which provides technical support and operational aircraft for Air Sierra Leone’s relaunch.

Speaking during the inaugural flight ceremony on Wednesday at Lagos airport, Air Sierra Leone’s General Manager, Edgard Lacle, expressed delight over the airline’s return to Nigeria.

Lacle revealed that Air Sierra Leone has secured approval to operate flights on the Lagos-Freetown route three times weekly—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—with plans to expand the schedule as passenger demand grows.

He said, “The connection between Sierra Leone and Nigeria is strong, especially in terms of trade and we have a market and everybody is trying to part in that market.

“The trade is top, tourism is part of it and the connection between Sierra Leone and Nigeria.

“The partnership is a technical one and they provide aircraft. The aircraft suits the market and movement of passengers. The moment we see the market changes we will adjust.”

Also speaking the Chief Executive Officer of XEJET, Iza Emmanuel, describes the event as a rebirth of the Air Sierra Leo in Nigeria.
He added that the airline was created as a beacon of hope, progress, and resilience for Sierra Leone.

He said “After over 15 years, the Sierra Leonean flag again takes to the skies. To our dignitaries and guests from Sierra Leone and Nigeria, your presence here today is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that unite our nations. It is also a reflection of the shared vision of growth, connectivity, and opportunity for our people. We are truly honored to have you join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone.”