Aviation authorities in The Gambia have granted Overland Airways Fifth Freedom Rights to enhance regional air connectivity and foster economic growth. On Saturday, Overland Airways launched its Lagos-Banjul route with the inaugural flight landing at Banjul International Airport at 4:45 PM. This marks the airline’s second regional expansion within a week, following its inaugural Freetown service. The airline sets to utilise Gambia’s Fifth Freedom Rights among others to further strengthen its connectivity.
The fifth freedom of the air allows airlines to operate flights between two foreign countries while originating from their home base. This provision enables airlines to optimize operations, expand networks, and serve underserved routes. By granting Overland Airways Fifth Freedom Rights, The Gambia reinforces its commitment to regional integration and the vision of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Read Also: AFCAC Announces 13 New African Routes with Fifth Freedom Rights Under SAATM Implementation
During the ceremony, The Gambia’s Transport Minister, Ebrima Silla, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. “As a SAATM PIP State and founding member of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG), the decision to grant Overland Airways Fifth Freedom Rights aligns with Article 3.1 of the Yamoussoukro Decision,” Silla stated. He emphasized that these rights support intra-African connectivity, trade, and tourism, benefiting both countries.
Moreover, Silla assured Overland of his ministry’s full support, including incentives, additional route rights, and designations. Particularly, he expressed optimism about Overland’s potential to transform Banjul into a regional hub connecting other West African destinations. Explore SAATM PIP
Overland’s CEO, Captain Edward Boyo, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to safe and efficient operations, fully adhering to all regulations. He expressed confidence in the Lagos-Banjul route, backed by the deployment of the airline’s new Embraer E-175 aircraft. “We are committed to making this service a vital link for West Africa’s connectivity and development,” Captain Boyo stated.
Additionally, by securing Gambia’s Fifth Freedom Rights, Overland Airways has taken a leap in advancing regional aviation and economic growth. This milestone supports the Yamoussoukro Decision and SAATM, positioning Overland Airways as a driver of West African integration.
Kelechi Nwosu, representing Nigeria’s Charges D’Affaires, praised the event as a pivotal achievement for regional collaboration and connectivity. He stressed that the launch represents more than a flight route, serving as a platform for economic and cultural partnerships.
Nwosu highlighted transportation’s role in enabling ideas, expanding opportunities, and creating sustainable development across interconnected West African nations. He commended Overland Airways for offering reliable, efficient services that strengthen bonds and bridge gaps between Nigeria and The Gambia.
Accompanying the Minister were Nfansi Bojang, Gambia Civil Aviation Director General, and Matar Ceesay, Permanent Secretary of Aviation.
