FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — Air Sierra Leone experienced a critical incident on Monday when one of its aircraft was compelled to execute an emergency landing shortly after departing from Freetown International Airport in Lungi.
The flight encountered technical difficulties shortly after takeoff, prompting the flight crew to return to the airport as a precautionary measure.
All passengers and crew members disembarked safely, and no injuries were reported. The airline has not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of the technical issue but has confirmed that an internal investigation is underway.
This incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air Sierra Leone’s operations. The airline, which resumed services in late 2024 after a hiatus, operates flights between Freetown and London using aircraft leased from Nigerian carrier XeJet. Notably, the Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft currently in use had previously experienced a runway excursion in Lagos in May 2024, though no injuries occurred in that event .
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of civil aviation in the country. The authority is expected to conduct a thorough review of the incident in collaboration with Air Sierra Leone to prevent future occurrences.
