The Sierra Leonean government has officially concluded its investigation into the unauthorized landing of a fourteen-seater aircraft at Freetown International Airport (FNA) on September 20, 2024.
The incident, which raised serious security concerns, resulted in the imposition of fines totaling $400,000 against the four crew members involved.Following the unauthorized landing, airport and security authorities swiftly intervened, securing the aircraft and launching a detailed inquiry.
Upon inspection, it was discovered that the aircraft carried four individuals, including the captain: three Mexican nationals and one Spanish national.
The crew members were detained and taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for interrogation. In addition, two air traffic controllers were apprehended to provide further insight into the incident.
The investigation involved comprehensive searches and forensic evaluations by both local and international experts. Ultimately, the findings indicated no evidence of illegal activities or contraband aboard the aircraft.In response to the findings, the Director of Public Prosecutions recommended civil charges against the crew for multiple violations of the Civil Aviation Act of 2023.
These violations included operating an aircraft without the necessary personnel and operational certificates, as well as unauthorized flights over Sierra Leonean territory.
As a consequence, each of the crew members was fined $100,000. On October 14, 2024, they, through their legal representatives, settled the fines, paying a total of $400,000 into the Consolidated Fund.
With this payment, all parties involved have been released, and the aircraft has been returned to its owners. Authorities have since declared the matter closed, marking the conclusion of a significant incident in Sierra Leone’s aviation history.
The government emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s airspace while reinforcing regulations to prevent future unauthorized landings.
