Air Sierra Leone has announced the temporary suspension of its London-Freetown and London-Banjul services for the entire month of May 2026 after its aircraft provider, Ascend Airways, reportedly entered bankruptcy and liquidation proceedings.

The development has sparked disappointment among travellers and raised fresh concerns over the stability of Sierra Leone’s newly revived national carrier ambitions, as the airline’s key international routes have now been abruptly halted.

In a press release dated 29th April 2026, the airline said the collapse of Ascend Airways led to the immediate cessation of the provider’s operations, leaving Air Sierra Leone unable to continue scheduled flights on the affected routes.

According to the airline, the suspension is intended to allow time to secure a new aircraft provider and complete regulatory approvals with aviation authorities in Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and The Gambia.

The airline apologised to affected passengers, assuring customers that full refunds or rebooking options would be provided.

Speaking on the matter, Group Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sukhjinder Mann, said management was equally shocked by the sudden closure of Ascend Airways, describing the company as a reliable business partner with no prior indication of financial distress.

He noted that wider pressures within the global aviation industry, including the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, have forced several airlines to reduce operations or shut down entirely.

Mann, however, insisted that Air Sierra Leone remains financially stable and is already in talks with several alternative operators to restore services.

He explained that the airline opted to suspend flights throughout May to allow sufficient time for replacement aircraft to be registered and certified by the relevant civil aviation authorities, while also reducing the risk of further disruptions to passengers.

Despite the setback, Air Sierra Leone reaffirmed its commitment to serving routes between West Africa, Europe, and regional destinations, promising to unveil the next phase of its growth plans soon.

The suspension is nevertheless seen by many observers as an embarrassing blow to Sierra Leone’s aviation image, particularly at a time when the country has been seeking to strengthen international connectivity and rebuild confidence in its air transport sector.

Passengers seeking further assistance have been advised to contact the airline through its official customer care channels.