Air Sierra Leone has announced the temporary suspension of its London–Freetown and London–Banjul routes for May 2026, following the sudden bankruptcy of its aircraft provider Ascend Airways.
The airline said the collapse of its partner had a “significant impact” on operations, forcing an immediate halt while it secures a new service provider and completes regulatory approvals with aviation authorities in Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and The Gambia.
The carrier stated that affected passengers will receive either full refunds or alternative bookings, and expressed confidence that it remains financially stable despite the disruption.
Its Chief Operating Officer, Sukhjinder Mann, said the closure of Ascend Airways came unexpectedly, adding that broader industry pressures, including geopolitical tensions affecting aviation routes, have worsened operational challenges.
Air Sierra Leone said it is in advanced talks with alternative operators and hopes to resume flights before the end of May, while reaffirming its commitment to minimize further disruption and maintain long-term international connectivity.
