By: Dawda Baldeh
AirFrance has on Monday 1st November 2021, made its maiden flight to Banjul, landing with over 120 tourists. The landing of the flight at the Banjul International Airport was witnessed by senior officials and operational personnel from AirFrance.
Speaking to journalists immediately after the flight landed in Banjul, Jean-Marc Pouchol, Vice President Africa Commercial, Sales and Alliance of AirFrance said the flight will operate on daily bases between Paris and Banjul as well as to other countries.
Mr. Pouchol expressed gratitude to Gambian authorities for accepting the collaboration. “This new flight will also help to strengthen business between Gambia, France and the rest of the world,” he said.
As part of the initiatives the company is offering a fare promotion of $580 on Economic Cabin from Banjul to Paris. It is the first time AirFrance flight landed in Banjul and this is expected to continue. This will also serve as an opportunity for the Gambian tourism industry.
The flight will leave Banjul on daily bases at 6:25am and will arrive in Paris the day after at 5:20am with one hour stop in Bamako. And from Paris, the flight will leave at 12:00am and fly direct to Banjul arrive at 4:55pm.
The flight will be operated by Boeing 777-200 with the capacity of 312 seats equipped with Air France new cabins (28 seats in Business, 24 in Premium Economy and 260 in Economy).
Mr. Mahender added that AirFrance will help to bring tourists and investors as the tourist season begins in Banjul. He added that Gambia will benefit a lot from their company as they will create employment and increase the tax income of the country.
On his part Hari Singh, General Manager AirFrance spoke about the benefits the flight will bring to Gambia.
“The benefits are huge as we will create employment for many Gambian youth and also increase the tax through our operation inn Banjul,” he said. “AirFrance will also bring in tourists throughout the 2021-2022 season. Both countries will benefit tremendously from AirFrance.”
According to the officials, the new development will attract foreign investors in the country. The new initiative will make travelling easier for Gambians and those using AirFrance by connecting them with other countries. Officials said the new service is an opportunity for both countries.
The official launching of AirFrance was held on Tuesday 2nd November 2021, at the Airlines office in Senegambia.
