Sierra Leone’s new flag carrier, Air Sierra Leone has commenced flight operations from Freetown to Lagos, Nigeria as part of its ways to expand operations across Africa.
The airline has also announced technical partnership with Xejet, one of Nigeria’s domestic carriers which will provide aircraft for it’s operations.
The airline which marked its inaugural flight to Lagos on Wednesday recorded 36 passenger load factor on its 50-seat capacity E145 aircraft.
Speaking during its inaugural flight ceremony at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Edgard Lacle, general manager, Air Sierra Leone said the airline will operate three weekly flights to Lagos; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
“We will be using the E145 aircraft, which has about 50 passenger seat capacity. There are about 36 passengers on this inaugural flight. We have our products and we are interested in pushing our products which is quite different from any other products out there,” Lacle said.
Speaking on the attraction to the Nigerian market, he said the connection between Sierra Leone and Nigeria is very strong in terms of trade.
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“The major attraction for us is trade and movement. Trade is top, tourism is part of it. Also, a lot of Nigerians have stayed in Sierra Leone for long and some are even married in Sierra Leone. We have all these connections.
“We expect a full load factor. Our aircraft suits the market and movement of passengers and we will maintain this until we see the market changes and grows, then we will adjust,” he added.
Also speaking at the event,
Emmanuel Iza, Xejet’s CEO, said
Air Sierra Leone’s inaugural flight, reminds him of the power of dreams, determination, and the collective effort of an entire nation.
“This day is more than just the launch of an airline; it is the rebirth of a national icon. After over 15 years, the Sierra Leonean flag again takes to the skies, a beacon of hope, progress, and resilience for our beloved nation.
“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,” Iza said.
He said Air Sierra Leone was born out of a vision—to connect Sierra Leone to the world, to inspire pride in African heritage, and to create opportunities that will transform lives.
He further explained that the inaugural flight from Freetown to Lagos symbolises the beginning of that journey.
“Air Sierra Leone is committed to providing world-class service that reflects the warmth and hospitality of our people. We aim to be more than just an airline, we aim to be an ambassador of Sierra Leone’s culture, values, and aspirations,” he said.
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