Lagos, Nigeria – After more than 15 years of dormancy, Sierra Leone’s national carrier, Air Sierra Leone, has officially resumed scheduled flight operations between Lagos, Nigeria, and Freetown, Sierra Leone. The inaugural flight, which landed in Lagos on Wednesday, marked a significant milestone in the airline’s history and a new chapter in Sierra Leone-Nigeria relations.

The airline’s return to Nigeria was made possible through a strategic partnership with Nigerian airline XEJet, which is providing technical support and three operational aircraft to facilitate Air Sierra Leone’s operations.

During the inaugural flight ceremony at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Air Sierra Leone General Manager Edgard Lacle expressed delight at the airline’s re-entry into the Nigerian market. Lacle revealed that Air Sierra Leone has been granted approval to operate three weekly flights—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—between Lagos and Freetown. He added that the frequency would be increased based on passenger demand.

“For the inaugural flight, we conveyed 36 passengers into Lagos,” Lacle said. “The connection between Sierra Leone and Nigeria is strong, especially in terms of trade. The trade market is vibrant, and tourism also plays a significant role in strengthening the bond between our nations. With XEJet providing aircraft suited to the market, we are poised to adjust operations as the market evolves.”

The partnership with XEJet represents a technical collaboration aimed at ensuring smooth operations for the national carrier. Speaking at the event, XEJet Chief Executive Officer Iza Emmanuel described the occasion as a rebirth for Air Sierra Leone in Nigeria, emphasizing the significance of the milestone.

“After over 15 years, the Sierra Leonean flag is once again soaring in the skies,” Emmanuel stated. “This is not just about an airline—it is a symbol of hope, progress, and resilience for Sierra Leone. The strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Sierra Leone and Nigeria are reflected in this achievement, and today marks a shared vision of growth, connectivity, and opportunity for our people.”

The resumption of Air Sierra Leone’s operations is expected to enhance trade, tourism, and bilateral ties between the two West African nations, opening new opportunities for economic and cultural exchange.