Why Air Sierra Leone returned to Nigeria after 15 years – GM | READ DETAILS
Fifteen years after being inactive, Sierra Leone National carrier, Air Sierra Leone, has returned to Nigeria to resume its scheduled flight operations between Lagos and Freetown.
Air Sierra Leone returned to Nigeria in partnership with a Nigerian airline, XEJet.
Addressing journalists at the sideline of the inaugural flight ceremony, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at the Lagos airport, Air Sierra Leone General Manager, Edgard Lacle, said the return is in partnership with a Nigerian airline, XEJet, who will provide technical support to it and provide three operational aircraft for the airline to return to the country.
According to Lacle, the airline has secured permission to operate in Nigeria three times weekly; on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, adding that the schedule will be increased as the number of passengers increases.
For the inaugural flight to Lagos, the airline boss said its aircraft conveyed 36 passengers into the country.
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, 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.”
