Freetown-Lungi International Airport (FNA)

Location

The airport is situated across the Sierra Leone River from Freetown, eight miles (13km) north of the city.

Getting to the city

Travel options from the airport to Freetown are limited. Currently there is a ferry that crosses the river to the city, or a route by road, which takes about four to six hours and is not recommended at night. The ferry is the cheapest option, but there can be long queues (several hours on either end), and there is a risk of crime and overloading. Passengers are advised not to use this service alone, or as a foot passenger. Private boat services are available for the crossing, but passengers are advised to avoid using the local fishing boats. For safety reasons all passengers arriving at the airport at night should wait until daylight to travel to Freetown; there are several hotels and guesthouses near the airport, but these need to be booked early due to a high demand. There is also a commercial hovercraft service between Freetown (Aberdeen) and Mahera Beach (Lungi), but this has experienced mechanical problems during the crossing, and crashed into the terminal building on 23 May 2008. A UTAir helicopter transfer service has resumed operation between Lungi Airport and Freetown.

Time

GMT.

Contacts

Tel: +232 (0)22 338 307 or (0)22 223 881 (Airports Authority).

Car rental

No car hire facilities are available.

Facilities

Shops, a bar and currency exchange services are available.

Departure Tax

US$40 if flying on an African airline; otherwise the tax is included in the ticket.

Website

www.freetownairport.com

Freetown Airport Taxis: the taxi fares above are intended as a guideline only.