Air Sierra Leone Makes Historic Landing In Freetown On First Direct Flight From London

By Ishmael Sallieu Koroma

LUNGI, June 17, 2025 — In a milestone for Sierra Leone’s aviation industry, Air Sierra Leone’s inaugural direct commercial flight from London touched down at Freetown International Airport this morning at 0435 local time—25 minutes ahead of schedule—signaling the national carrier’s bold return to long-haul international service.

The landmark flight departed London Gatwick International Airport at 2300 LT on Monday, June 16, 2025. It was operated by an Airbus A321 Long Range aircraft with registration number G-OATW, accommodating 195 passengers. Though the Boeing 737-8 Max is the aircraft designated for the London–Freetown route, the A321LR was used for this debut flight.

According to Group Chief Operating Officer Sukh Mann, the move was deliberate:

 “This is to showcase the portfolio of aircraft that we have access to, in order to service this key route, and to reassure the Sierra Leonean market of our commitment to reliability.”

Passenger Praise and Experience

Among the passengers on board was Minkail Mohamed Kuyateh, who shared his experience on Meta (formerly Facebook), praising the overall quality of the flight:

 “So I was on the official inaugural Air Sierra Leone flight from London. Like many others I had my doubts. Check-in was smooth, staff was excellent—especially Monika Mansi. Clean plane, courteous cabin crew, flight was smooth and in less than six hours we made it to Lungi safely. No business class yet but seats are comfy, food was great—though I was expecting lafidi, so I’ll have to talk to my Madinga brother, Transport and Aviation Minister Fanday Turay!”

He also extended thanks to the airline’s staff, including Mami and Edgard, and Director of Aviation Musayeroh, who personally encouraged him to try the service and checked on him until he boarded.

“Excellent flight. Let’s support Air Sierra Leone. I travel a lot, so it’s good to have options.”

Other passengers echoed similar sentiments, applauding the professionalism of the crew, onboard hospitality, and smooth takeoff and landing. Many called the experience a source of national pride and a sign of the airline’s renewed potential.

Return Flight and Future Prospects

The return leg of the flight is scheduled to depart Freetown at 1045 LT today, with an expected arrival in London at 1745 LT. Air Sierra Leone has emphasized its commitment to punctuality and service quality as it re-establishes itself in international aviation.

This successful launch is being hailed as a major step toward strengthening ties with the Sierra Leonean diaspora, boosting tourism, and enhancing trade links. It also positions the national airline as a competitive player in the West African aviation space.

Booking Information and Official Channels

For bookings and ticket purchases, customers are encouraged to visit www.flysierraleone.com, the airline’s head office at 21/23 Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, or any authorized sales representative.

The airline has urged the public to rely solely on its verified communication channels for accurate information and updates.

A New Chapter in Sierra Leonean Aviation

With this historic flight, Air Sierra Leone sends a clear signal: it is back, ambitious, and ready to connect Sierra Leone to the world—with safety, style, and national pride.