The Gambia is set to welcome the first seasonal flight of the 2026/27 tourism season this Friday, October 9, with a direct flight from London Gatwick to Banjul.

The arrival is expected to mark the official start of another tourism season, as The Gambia prepares to welcome visitors from the United Kingdom and other international markets.

According to The Gambia Experience, the first flight will depart London Gatwick at 9:25am and arrive in Banjul at 2:40pm.

Throughout October, flights are scheduled to operate every Friday between London Gatwick and Banjul.

From November 3, the programme is expected to expand, with direct charter flights operating every Tuesday and Saturday from London Gatwick until April 2027.

Additional Monday departures are also planned around the Christmas period to accommodate increased demand during the festive season.

Flight-only fares from the United Kingdom currently start from £399 per person, while return fares start from £599.

The fares include a light in-flight meal, 20kg of checked luggage and 10kg of hand luggage, according to The Gambia Experience.

The programme will also facilitate travel from The Gambia to the United Kingdom, allowing passengers to travel for family visits, business, studies and other purposes.

One-way fares from Banjul to the UK start from £400, equivalent to about D38,000, with different ticket options available, including returns of up to 12 months.

The Gambia Experience, which says it has been connecting travellers between the UK and The Gambia for almost 40 years, is continuing its seasonal flight programme as the country prepares for the 2026/27 tourism season.

The arrival of the first flight comes as tourism stakeholders prepare to receive visitors and support the sector, which remains an important part of The Gambia’s economy.

By Adama Makasuba