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After more than ten years of indirect travel, direct flights between the United Kingdom (UK) and Sierra Leone are poised to resume in late October 2025, thanks to the launch of Zuri Sky Ltd.
The UK-based airline has announced plans to operate weekly flights from London Gatwick to Freetown’s Lungi International Airport, dramatically reducing travel time from over eleven hours to just six.
The initiative is spearheaded by aviation veteran Robert Blick, former Honorary Consul and Trade Commissioner, who brings extensive experience in airline operations and a deep understanding of the Sierra Leonean market. Blick aims to address the challenges that have plagued previous attempts to sustain direct flights, including the impact of the Ebola crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Zuri Sky is adopting a strategic approach, emphasizing regulatory readiness, financial stability, and experienced leadership. The airline has secured backing from European investors and is committed to obtaining full UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approval before launching operations.
The return of direct flights is expected to significantly benefit the large Sierra Leonean diaspora in the UK, as well as boost tourism and business ties between the two nations. By eliminating lengthy and costly layovers in other European and African hubs, Zuri Sky aims to make travel more accessible and efficient.
“This direct route represents more than just convenience—it’s a lifeline for families, businesses, and economic growth,” said a Zuri Sky representative. “By eliminating layovers, Zuri Sky aims to streamline travel for investors, business professionals, and holidaymakers, fostering stronger UK-Sierra Leone ties.”
Initially, Zuri Sky will operate one weekly flight using chartered aircraft, with plans to expand frequency and introduce direct flights from the United States in the future. The airline’s long-term success will rely on passenger demand, financial stability, and operational efficiency.
Another one ????
Air Sierra Leone came up , raised our hopes and vanished, gone with the wind , now we have Zuri .
We wait with bated breath .
Hi Patrick,
Thanks for your comment and we fully understand your concerns given past experiences. However, I would like to highlight some material differences in our operation.
There are four key factors that make us different:
1) We will not advertise any flight schedules until every requirement is fully met;
2) we are backed by committed European investors who are determined to make this a success;
3) our management is based in London, ensuring we comply with the strict regulations of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA); and finally
4) our Chairman, Robert Blick, has been part of the Sierra Leonean diaspora for over 30 years and has successfully managed a similar airline between Sierra Leone and UK.
Above all, we believe in honesty and full transparency—we will not mislead our customers. Our commitment is to build trust and deliver a reliable airline that truly serves the people: we are the People’s Airline.
In our recent press release on PR Newswire, we urge everyone to sign up on our website http://www.zuri-sky.com, to lock in their 10% discount when tickets go live and to provide you with regular updates.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any further questions and/or concerns.
Kind regards,
Zuri Sky