“SKIES OPEN, ECONOMY RISES: MADAM BARIE PUTS SIERRA LEONE ON THE FLIGHT MAP”

Under the visionary leadership of the DG, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Sierra Leone’s aviation sector made history during the ECOWAS Summit held between July 17 and 19.

While leaders debated the future of the region, the country’s airport was writing its own story in real time. According to figures released by the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), the airport handled a total of 2,367 commercial passengers within the three days. That surge turned Freetown into a true gateway for West Africa.

The numbers speak for themselves: 17 commercial flights and 15 private jet movements were recorded, reflecting a steady flow of both scheduled and private air travel operations. From diplomats and delegates to investors and media, the runway never slept.

This milestone is more than statistics. It shows that with focused leadership, infrastructure can deliver when the nation needs it most. Madam Barrie’s stewardship has proven that Sierra Leone is not just hosting summits, it is ready to connect, trade, and compete.

As the region watches, one thing is clear: the skies are open, and Sierra Leone is taking off.