Airline Cites Bankruptcy, Liquidation of Partner; Promises Full Refunds or Rebooking
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – 29 April 2026 – Air Sierra Leone has announced the temporary suspension of all London‑Freetown and London‑Banjul flights for the month of May following the bankruptcy and liquidation of its aircraft provider, Ascend Airways.
In a press release issued today, the airline expressed “sincere regret” in informing customers that Ascend Airways had ceased operations with immediate effect, a development Air Sierra Leone described as unforeseen and significant.
“We were equally shocked by the immediate cessation of Ascend Airways’ operations,” said Mr. Sukhijinder Mann, Group Chief Operating Officer. “They have been an excellent business partner, and we had no indication that they were experiencing financial difficulties.”
The airline stated that the suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure the continued safety, reliability, and sustainability of its services while it finalises arrangements with a new aircraft provider and completes all necessary regulatory procedures with civil aviation authorities in Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and The Gambia.
Mr. Mann also pointed to broader industry pressures, noting that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to have a significant impact on the aviation sector, with several airlines announcing closures or reducing networks and frequencies.
Despite the setback, Air Sierra Leone assured the public that the airline remains well‑funded and is actively discussing alternative aircraft arrangements with several operators. While flights are suspended throughout May to allow sufficient time for aircraft registration, the airline hopes to return to the skies sooner if possible.
“Our priority is to minimise any risk of further disruption to the travelling public,” the statement read.
All affected customers will be assisted by the airline’s dedicated team and offered a full refund or rebooking on subsequent flights.
Air Sierra Leone also thanked Ascend Airways for their professionalism and support during their partnership, expressing hope that affected staff would be quickly redeployed. The airline added that it would consider them a priority should it expand its ground operations in London in the near future.
“Whilst the news regarding Ascend Airways is undoubtedly a setback, we remain fully committed to our markets, our growing customer base, and our loyal passengers,” the airline stated. “Air Sierra Leone remains dedicated to being the carrier of choice between West Africa, Europe, and destinations across the region.”
