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Air Sierra Leone to Launch Direct Flights from Banjul to London Gatwick on February 15 Air Sierra Leone to Launch Direct Flights from Banjul to London Gatwick on February 15

In a significant boost to West Africa-UK air connectivity, Air Sierra Leone has announced the launch of a new direct service linking Banjul, The Gambia, to London Gatwick. Scheduled to commence on February 15, 2026, this route marks a milestone in strengthening trade, tourism, and investment ties between The Gambia and the United Kingdom. The new service positions The Gambia as a rising aviation and business destination in West Africa.

The announcement was made during the UK–Gambia Trade and Investment Forum by Sukhjinder Mann, Group Chief Operating Officer of XEJet, Air Sierra Leone’s technical partner. Based in Nigeria, XEJet has been actively expanding its footprint across West Africa and the UK, with the Banjul–London Gatwick service being its latest venture. Mann described the launch as a strategic move that aligns with growing bilateral economic cooperation and increasing demand for reliable air access between the two regions.

Initially, the direct service will operate once weekly, with plans to expand frequency to three flights per week as passenger demand stabilises. The fares for the route will start at \$900, making it competitive for both leisure and business travellers. This development follows XEJet’s earlier success in supporting Air Sierra Leone’s direct flights from Freetown to the UK, underscoring its commitment to strengthening regional aviation links.

Mann highlighted the broader economic benefits of the new route, emphasizing its dual focus on passenger movement and cargo exports. He explained that the airline aims to stimulate export-led growth by facilitating trade between The Gambia and the UK, thereby supporting local businesses and suppliers.

“We want to promote passenger traffic, but we are also very focused on export cargo out of The Gambia and supporting suppliers and businesses trading with the UK,” Mann stated during the forum. This dual-purpose approach is expected to strengthen supply chains and enhance trade efficiency, benefiting both markets.

The launch of this route is seen as part of a larger strategy to position The Gambia as a potential aviation hub in West Africa. Despite its relatively small size, The Gambia is being recognized for its policy stability, investor openness, and business-friendly regulatory environment. According to Mann, these factors make the country an attractive destination for aviation investment.

“When we first came, we were sceptical. But when we sat down and saw the opportunities available, we were overwhelmed. When The Gambia talks about ease of doing business, they mean it,” Mann remarked, reflecting on the country’s supportive investment climate. He also noted that The Gambia’s size does not limit its potential, adding, “We judge markets by potential, not geography.”

Industry experts believe the new route will deliver multiple benefits, including improved air access, increased tourism arrivals, enhanced cargo export capabilities, and strengthened foreign direct investment flows. By providing direct access to the UK, The Gambia is expected to attract more international investors, position itself as a gateway for West African trade, and further solidify its role in regional aviation growth.

As the February 15 launch date approaches, travel professionals and businesses across West Africa are likely to welcome this development, which promises to create new opportunities for both tourism and commerce. With plans already in place for expanding the service, the route represents a long-term commitment to fostering stronger ties between The Gambia and the United Kingdom.