โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Hastings Airport (HGS) is a small regional airfield located in the Western Area of Sierra Leone, approximately 15 kilometers southeast of central Freetown at an elevation of 60 feet above sea level. Operating with the ICAO designation GFHA, the airport serves as an alternative to Lungi International Airport for domestic and charter operations, offering the significant advantage of mainland access without requiring the ferry crossing over the Sierra Leone River that is necessary for Lungi-bound passengers.
The airport infrastructure centers around a single 960-meter asphalt runway designated 09/27, which accommodates light aircraft operations including single and twin-engine turboprops. Airport facilities remain basic, consisting of a simple terminal structure with minimal passenger amenities. The facility operates primarily for general aviation, charter flights, and occasional government transport, with Avgas fuel available for visiting aircraft. Current operational status requires prior permission for many operations, and the airport functions with limited scheduled commercial service.
Ground support services at Hastings are elementary, reflecting its role as a secondary aviation facility for Sierra Leone's capital region. The terminal building provides basic weather protection and administrative functions, though passenger amenities are sparse compared to larger regional airports. The airport's strategic location in the Western Area makes it accessible by road transport, avoiding the complex logistics associated with Lungi International Airport. However, travelers should verify current operational status and fuel availability before planning operations, as the facility's capacity for regular commercial operations remains limited.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Hastings Airport is exceptionally quick for domestic transfers, often taking under 20 minutes due to the compact, single-terminal layout. As HGS primarily serves regional flights within Sierra Leone, ensure you confirm if your baggage is through-checked, as manual handling is common. The short walking distance between the arrivals area and check-in counters makes "self-transfers" between separate domestic bookings very manageable. Arriving at the terminal 60 minutes before departure is standard for domestic regional flights. A major benefit of HGS is its location on the Freetown mainland, avoiding the ferry crossing required for Lungi International (FNA).
However, if your itinerary requires a transfer to Lungi for an international departure, allow at least 6 hours. You must navigate Freetown's heavy traffic to reach the ferry terminal and then complete the 45-minute crossing to the Lungi peninsula. Always check the current water taxi and ferry schedules, as these can be affected by weather. Booking your entire journey on a single ticket is the safest strategy for airline protection during these complex transfers. Ground transport to Freetown city center takes about 40 minutes via taxi or private shuttle.
For layovers of 5 hours or more, a visit to the Sierra Leone Peace Museum or the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is possible. Within the airport, basic facilities like a sheltered waiting area and information desk are available, but dining is limited. Travelers should carry their own water and snacks for longer waits. The facility provides a professional and quiet environment, offering a faster and more direct entry to the capital than the larger international hub across the river.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Freetown Lungi International Airport (FNA) is the primary international gateway to Sierra Leone, serving the capital city of Freetown. In March 2023, the airport underwent a historic transformation with the opening of a brand-new, USD 270 million state-of-the-art terminal. Managed by Summa Airports under a 25-year BOT concession, this sleek facility is three times larger than the previous terminal and has increased the airport's annual capacity to over 1.2 million passengers. Notably, it is the first fully green airport terminal in West Africa, powered by its own dedicated 1.5 MW solar farm.
The new terminal building offers a modern and sophisticated environment for travelers, featuring the latest in aviation technology and security systems. Inside, passengers find a spacious check-in area with ultramodern ICT infrastructure, efficient baggage handling systems, and comfortable waiting lounges. The facility includes a diverse range of commercial amenities, such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes. For premium and government travelers, the airport features new presidential and VIP terminals, as well as a modernized air traffic control tower that ensures the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Lungi International is a key hub for regional and international connectivity, hosting major carriers such as Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, and Air Peace. The airport's rehabilitation also included a new parallel taxiway and expanded passenger aprons, positioning it as a competitive transit hub in the West African sub-region. As Sierra Leone continues to promote its tourism and business sectors, the airport plays a crucial role in attracting more international airlines and facilitating the flow of visitors to the country's stunning beaches and historic landmarks.
A unique aspect of traveling to Freetown via Lungi is the transit across the Sierra Leone River, as the airport is located on the mainland opposite the capital. The most efficient and scenic way to reach the city is by private water taxi or ferry, with services like Sea Coach Express and Sea Bird Express providing direct transfers that take approximately 30 minutes. These services typically include a shuttle from the terminal to the ferry dock. While a land route through Port Loko exists, it takes over three hours, making the water crossing the preferred choice for most travelers. Despite its location across the bay, the modernized Lungi International remains a cornerstone of Sierra Leone's economic growth and international reach.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Freetown Lungi International Airport (FNA) requires unique logistical planning because the airport is separated from the Sierra Leonean capital by a wide estuary. The most critical step upon arrival or departure is paying the mandatory $25 USD security fee (Securiport). This can be paid online in advance or at a designated bank kiosk within the arrivals hall; you must retain your receipt, as it is required to pass through security checkpoints. For international arrivals, a visa-on-arrival is available for many nationalities, typically costing between $25 and $80 USD depending on your country of origin.
To reach Freetown city center, travelers must choose between a water taxi, a public ferry, or a long road journey. The water taxi is the most recommended option for speed and comfort, taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes to cross the water. Popular operators like Sea Coach Express and Sea Bird Express have desks in the arrivals hall where you can purchase tickets for around $40 to $45 USD. A shuttle bus will then transport you from the terminal to the jetty. The public ferry is significantly cheaper but can be unreliable and time-consuming, while the road route around the estuary takes four to five hours and is generally reserved for travel to the provinces.
Once at the docks in Freetown, numerous taxis and three-wheeled 'Kekes' are available for the final leg to your hotel. It is highly advisable to arrange a pickup through your accommodation in advance, especially for late-night arrivals. Within the terminal, you can find currency exchange booths and local mobile provider kiosks to obtain a SIM card. Arriving at least three hours before departure is recommended to navigate the security and ferry/water taxi coordination.
โ Back to Hastings Airport