Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a recent announcement, Air France has revealed its decision to indefinitely suspend flights to Sierra Leone, citing low passenger volume and high taxes as the main reasons behind the move. The suspension will take effect in October of this year, dealing a blow to the newly constructed airport that had hoped to attract more international flights.
Dr. David Sengeh, the Chief Minister of the Government of Sierra Leone, confirmed the news through a Tweet on July 18, 2023, following discussions with Air France’s General Manager for West Africa.
Dr. Sengeh expressed his understanding of the airline’s decision, taking into account the long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, limited flight availability, and the relatively low volume of travelers to the region.
“I’d a good call with Air France GM West Africa to understand the decision to suspend some routes in the region (Freetown and Banjul) starting this winter- long impact of covid, flight availability, and volume of travelers,” said Dr. Sengeh.
However, this decision has sparked a conversation about Sierra Leone’s tax policy and its impact on the cost of travel to the country.
Journalist Umaru Fofana highlighted the stark difference in ticket prices, noting that passengers pay significantly more to travel to Sierra Leone compared to other destinations in the West African sub-region.
One saves several hundred dollars flying from Europe or the US – and a lot more to Australia and South America on ticket cost alone,” he said.
Fofana suggested that the government reconsider its tax policy, as the high costs drive many passengers to choose alternative routes, such as traveling to Guinea by road or boat and then flying from Conakry.
Passengers have also raised concerns about additional charges at the airport, including a $50 security fee, which they consider exorbitant.
The Civil Aviation Authority, responsible for managing the airport and airlines in the country, has acknowledged these concerns and aims to reduce costs by the end of the year.
The newly constructed airport in Sierra Leone, boasting a modern terminal, recently passed the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audit for the first time. This achievement was expected to attract more flights and increase revenue for the country. However, Air France’s decision to suspend operations raises concerns about the airport’s future prospects.
Air France, with a fleet size of over 245 aircraft, serves 201 destinations in 78 countries worldwide. The airline’s flights to Freetown, Sierra Leone, were among the few non-regional routes available to travelers, flying at least once a week. This is not the first time Air France has suspended operations in Sierra Leone, as the airline halted flights during the Ebola virus outbreak in 2014 due to transmission concerns. Operations eventually resumed in 2019.
Critics of Sierra Leone’s travel industry point to high taxes, expensive ticket prices, and additional costs associated with Freetown International Airport as deterrents to potential passengers. These factors contribute to the decline in passenger numbers and the preference for alternative routes.
Despite the setback, Dr. Sengeh remains hopeful for new players entering the market and expressed optimism for Air France’s eventual return to Sierra Leone. The government, along with relevant authorities, aims to address the issues raised and create an environment that attracts more international flights, boosts revenue, and ultimately reduces the high cost of traveling to Freetown from other destinations.
