Air Sierra Leone’s historic inaugural flight between London and Freetown has successfully completed its return journey, touching down safely at London Gatwick Airport at exactly 3:45 PM UK time on Sunday.
The Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft departed from Lungi International Airport in Sierra Leone and landed on schedule, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier and strengthening ties between Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.
The atmosphere at Gatwick was electric as passengers disembarked to a warm welcome, greeted by cheers and the waving of Sierra Leonean and British flags, a vibrant celebration of national pride and renewed connectivity.
A special reception was held at the Sofitel London Gatwick North Terminal to honor those aboard the landmark flight, including business leaders, diaspora members, and tourists eager to experience Sierra Leone’s rich cultural and natural attractions.
The inaugural service earlier in the week was equally momentous, with the first flight from London to Freetown welcomed by festive celebrations on Sierra Leonean soil. The new air link is expected to boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people connections.
Air Sierra Leone’s London–Freetown route will operate three times weekly, with flights departing Gatwick on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:00 PM and arriving in Freetown by 5:00 AM. Return flights will leave Freetown on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 9:00 AM, landing back in London at 3:00 PM.
The airline’s management hailed the successful return as a testament to its commitment to offering safe, reliable, and pride-driven air travel between Sierra Leone and Europe.
