By Isha Saio Mansaray
FREETOWN——The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has released statistical data detailing aviation activities at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi during the two-day ECOWAS Summit, revealing a significant uptick in both commercial and private air traffic.
According to SLCAA, the authority managed approximately 2,367 commercial passengers between 17 and 19 July 2026, with 17 commercial flight movements and 14 private jet movements recorded over the same period.
Describing the figures as a remarkable achievement and a testament to the strength, resilience and efficiency of the sector, SLCAA commended the unwavering commitment, professionalism and dedication of every aviation stakeholder and personnel who worked tirelessly to ensure safe, secure and seamless operations throughout the event.
The surge in activities came as Sierra Leone hosted the landmark ECOWAS summit, which brought together Heads of State, diplomats, regional officials and other high-level dignitaries for a week-long gathering. The climax of the event was the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held under the chairmanship of Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio.
The session concluded on Sunday with the official handover of the bloc’s chairmanship to Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marking a smooth transition of regional leadership amid the heightened aviation activities that characterised the summit period.
SLCAA’s performance data underscores the country’s capacity to manage large-scale international events, with aviation personnel praised for maintaining operational standards despite the increased pressure of handling multiple high-profile arrivals and departures. The authority reiterated its commitment to sustaining such standards as Sierra Leone continues to position itself as a viable host for major regional and international gatherings.