Intercontinental Airways Company, the latest airline in the country's aviation industry, was yesterday launched at a press briefing held at the company's head office, at the former Nawec building in Fajara.

Some aviation analysts described the arrival of Intercontinental Airways as timely, arguing that it would add value and help filled the gaps in air transport, both within and outside The Gambia.

Speaking at the briefing, Aziz Willan, a media consultant, said the private sector participation in air transport was the most effective way towards the attainment of an integrated and harmonised economic region.

Captain Walter Okakpu, the managing director of Intercontinental Airways, touched on some specific challenges facing the air service industry of Africa. Mr Okakpu expressed the urgent need to connecting nation states and communities, while maintaining standard services and safety.

He described the launching as a milestone event in another African country, which yearns for the best for its people.

Captain Henry Ogunyemi, the chief executive officer of the Intercontinental Airways, informed the ceremony that the airline would fly to different destinations, including Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, UK and the US.

Diplomats, representatives of the local media houses (print and electronic) and staff of the company, attended the launch, which was sealed with refreshment.