Royal Air Maroc Expands Fleet for 2030 World Cup & Tourism Growth

Royal Air Maroc’s Strategic Fleet Expansion

Royal Air Maroc’s plan to add 20 aircraft by late 2026 marks a pivotal moment in African aviation. As Morocco’s flag carrier, this expansion aligns with national goals to boost tourism and establish Casablanca as a global aviation hub. With 56 aircraft currently in service, the airline aims to reach 73 planes by 2027 while eyeing an eventual 200-aircraft fleet through a proposed USD 25 billion renewal program.

The timing coincides with Morocco’s preparation to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, requiring robust air connectivity. Government support remains crucial – a USD 1.5 billion commitment underscores the initiative’s strategic importance for economic growth and regional influence.

Fleet Modernization and Route Development

Royal Air Maroc’s current expansion includes four B737-8s from Air Lease Corporation in 2025, complementing its existing fleet of B787-9s and regional jets. The airline recently resumed key long-haul routes to Beijing and São Paulo after a pandemic hiatus, achieving 30-tonne cargo loads per Beijing flight. These routes utilize the fuel-efficient 787-9s, operating three weekly flights with plans to double São Paulo frequencies by 2026.

Subsidiary Royal Air Maroc Express plays a vital role in regional connectivity, while wet-leased A330-200s from Hi Fly Malta and Iberojet demonstrate flexible capacity management during peak periods like Umrah pilgrimages.

“Our vision positions Casablanca as the bridge between Africa, Asia, and the Americas,” says Yassine Berrada, VP of Cargo at Royal Air Maroc.

Economic Drivers and Competitive Landscape

Morocco’s tourism sector recorded 14.5 million visitors in 2023, with projections reaching 17.5 million by 2026. This growth trajectory demands enhanced air capacity – Royal Air Maroc’s expansion directly supports Morocco’s goal to become a top-20 global tourism destination. The airline’s tender for 188 new aircraft involves Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, and ATR, reflecting a diversified fleet strategy.

Regional competitors like Ethiopian Airlines and Qatar Airways’ stake in RwandAir intensify pressure for modernization. Royal Air Maroc’s focus on cargo (representing 18% of 2023 revenue) and premium cabin offerings differentiates its approach in the African market.

Infrastructure upgrades at Casablanca Mohammed V Airport form part of the national strategy, with terminal capacity planned to increase from 14 million to 22 million annual passengers by 2030.

Challenges and Opportunities

While fuel costs remain volatile (jet fuel prices fluctuated 38% in 2023), the airline’s newer aircraft achieve 25% better fuel efficiency than retired models. Pilot training demands present another hurdle – Morocco’s aviation academy needs to triple its annual 150-graduate output to meet expansion needs.

Partnerships with European carriers show promise, with codeshare agreements generating 12% of 2023 passenger traffic. The airline’s SkyTeam associate membership since 2020 enhances global connectivity, though full alliance membership remains a strategic goal.

Conclusion

Royal Air Maroc’s fleet expansion reflects Morocco’s ambition to become a continental aviation leader. By balancing fleet growth with route development and infrastructure investment, the airline positions itself to capitalize on Africa’s projected 4.3% annual air traffic growth through 2040.

Success hinges on executing orders efficiently while navigating supply chain challenges – Boeing’s 737 MAX delivery delays currently average 8 months industry-wide. As CEO Abdelhamid Addou notes, “Our transformation isn’t just about aircraft numbers, but creating an integrated travel ecosystem supporting Morocco’s economic vision.”

FAQ

Question: How many aircraft will Royal Air Maroc operate by 2027?
Answer: The airline plans to grow from 56 to 73 aircraft by 2027.

Question: What’s driving the fleet expansion?
Answer: Tourism growth, World Cup preparations, and government economic strategy.

Question: How does this affect African aviation?
Answer: Positions Morocco as a key hub, competing with Ethiopian Airlines and Nairobi’s JKIA.

Sources:
ch-aviation,
Morocco World News,
Simple Flying