Royal Air Maroc (AT, Casablanca Mohamed V) must accelerate the implementation of its strategy to increase its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, according to a parliamentary committee report that urges the government to reassess the management and economic model of the state-owned airline, highlighting that current air connectivity does not align with the national tourism strategy.
The report notes that Morocco's limited domestic airline network and insufficient airline fleet are stifling tourism growth, as published by local media such as Canal 13 Maroc, Rabat Today, Hespress, and Assahifa. Despite three local airlines and international carriers, over 85% of passenger traffic is concentrated in just five airports. The report also notes that outdated airport infrastructure and limited air routes, especially to new markets like China, further hinder tourism.
The report emphasises that air transport is crucial for advancing the national tourism strategy and Morocco's global presence, particularly in Africa. It calls for a review of Royal Air Maroc's model to boost its international competitiveness, ensure long-haul connectivity, and support tourism. Recommendations include rapidly expanding RAM's fleet, considering more aircraft leasing, increasing domestic competition through low-cost carriers, and improving airport infrastructure and logistics. The goal is to enhance air connectivity and better support Morocco's tourism and economic ambitions.
In April, Royal Air Maroc launched a long-awaited tender for new aircraft, but the details were not released. Previously, it had planned to release the request for proposals (RFP) by the end of 2023, but this was later rescheduled to January 2024. CEO Abdelhamid Addou previously told ch-aviation the tender would cover all 200 aircraft, covering both fleet replacements and future growth. It would include a combination of firm orders with options, outright acquisitions, and dry leases, he said.
