Which Airlines Fly to The Gambia from the UK? Banjul Guide

Which Airlines Fly to The Gambia from the UK? Banjul Flight Guide

Planning a trip to The Gambia? Whether you're visiting family or escaping the UK winter, choosing the right flight to Banjul depends on when you travel. In the winter season there are direct flights of about 6 hours from London Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham. The rest of the year, you'll fly with one stop. This guide explains which airlines fly to The Gambia from the UK, when they fly, and how to get the best fare.

Direct Flights from the UK to Banjul (Winter Only)

Direct flights to Banjul International Airport (BJL) run in the winter sun season, when The Gambia is dry and sunny. They are mostly charter flights linked to holiday companies, so seats are often sold as part of a package holiday.

Airline	From	When
Jet2 (for The Gambia Experience)	London Gatwick	3 November 2026 to 27 April 2027, Tuesdays and Saturdays, plus some extra Mondays at peak times
TUI Airways	Manchester and Birmingham	Winter season (roughly November to April)

The flight takes about 6 hours, and there's no jet lag: The Gambia is on GMT all year, the same as UK winter time.

Does Jet2 fly to The Gambia?

This winter, Jet2 operates The Gambia Experience's direct flights from London Gatwick to Banjul. These flights are mainly sold as part of The Gambia Experience's holidays, so availability for flight-only travel can be limited.

Does TUI fly to The Gambia?

Yes. TUI Airways flies direct to Banjul in the winter season from Manchester and Birmingham, and is a popular choice for all-inclusive beach holidays.

Does Ryanair fly to The Gambia?

No. Ryanair and easyJet don't fly to The Gambia. For low fares, compare the winter direct flights with one-stop options on Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and Turkish Airlines.

Are there overnight or night-time flights to The Gambia?

Some direct and connecting flights leave in the evening or arrive late at night. Times vary by airline and day of the week, so we'll check the exact times for your dates. If you land late, arrange your hotel transfer or family pick-up in advance.

One-Stop Flights to Banjul (All Year)

Outside the winter season, or if the direct flights are full, these airlines fly to Banjul with one connection:

• Brussels Airlines via Brussels: a popular year-round scheduled option, especially with the UK Gambian community and independent travellers.
• Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca: often good value, with flights from London.
• Turkish Airlines via Istanbul: connections from London and several UK regional airports.

One-stop journeys usually take around 9 to 13 hours. Always book both flights on one ticket, so you're protected if your first flight is late.

The Best Time to Fly to The Gambia

• November to May (dry season): warm, sunny and almost no rain, around 25°C to 33°C. This is the best time to visit and when the direct flights run.
• December to February: the most popular months with UK visitors, including Christmas and New Year. Prices are highest, so book as early as you can.
• June to October (rainy season): hot and humid with heavy downpours. There are fewer flights, but fares can be lower, and it's a good time for family visits if you don't mind the rain.

How to Get a Cheap Flight to Banjul

• Book early for winter: charter seats are limited and the best fares go first, especially over Christmas, New Year and February half-term.
• Compare direct and one-stop: a one-stop flight can be cheaper than a direct charter, especially at peak times.
• Check the baggage: visiting family often means extra luggage, so compare the total price including bags.
• Be flexible: moving your trip by a few days, or flying midweek, can save money.
• Ask a specialist: we compare every option for your dates in one call. See our cheap flights to Banjul page, with fares from about £399 return.

Before You Travel

• Entry rules: check the latest UK Foreign Office (FCDO) travel advice and entry requirements for The Gambia before you go.
• Health: malaria tablets are usually recommended. Check TravelHealthPro for vaccines, including whether you need a yellow fever certificate for your route.
• Plugs and language: The Gambia uses the same UK-style plugs, and English is the official language.

Read more about the country on our flights to The Gambia page, or compare other West African destinations such as Senegal, Sierra Leone and Ghana. For more ways to save, see our guide to cheap flights to Africa from the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airlines fly direct from the UK to The Gambia?

In winter, Jet2 flies direct from London Gatwick for The Gambia Experience, and TUI Airways flies direct from Manchester and Birmingham. There are no direct flights in the summer rainy season.

How long is the flight from the UK to The Gambia?

Direct flights take about 6 hours. One-stop flights via Brussels, Casablanca or Istanbul usually take around 9 to 13 hours.

Does Ryanair or easyJet fly to The Gambia?

No. Neither Ryanair nor easyJet flies to The Gambia. Compare the winter direct flights with one-stop options on Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and Turkish Airlines.

Can I fly to The Gambia in the summer?

Yes. The direct winter flights don't run in summer, but you can fly all year with one stop on Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc or Turkish Airlines.

What is the best month to fly to The Gambia?

November to May is the dry season and the best time to visit. December to February is the most popular, and most expensive, period with UK visitors.

Is there a time difference between the UK and The Gambia?

The Gambia is on GMT all year. It's the same time as the UK in winter, and one hour behind during British Summer Time.

Is Dream Fare ATOL protected?

Dream Fare is IATA Affiliated. Flight tickets are issued through our IATA-accredited, ATOL-licensed partner, with ATOL protection provided where applicable to the booking.

Airline schedules can change. We confirm the latest flights and times for your dates when you book. Information correct at the time of writing.