Royal Air Maroc Expands French Routes, Strengthens casablanca as North African Aviation Hub

Royal Air Maroc is making significant strides in reinforcing its aviation links between France and Africa via Casablanca. This strategic move underscores Casablanca's growing role as a critical hub in North Africa. The airline aims to boost connectivity through a series of new routes and increased flight frequencies.

Royal Air Maroc plans to enhance its French connections by reinstating routes to Lyon, Toulouse, Nantes, and Bordeaux. These routes were previously suspended in 2017 and 2022 but will resume starting from October 10. The airline is set to operate two weekly flights using a Boeing 737-800 in a dual-class configuration. Moreover, a third weekly frequency will commence on October 27 for the Marseille-Marrakech route. Further expansion is anticipated between December 16, 2025, and January 18, 2026, when the frequency on the Paris-CDG to Marrakech route will increase from four weekly flights to a daily schedule.

As France remains the predominant European and global source market for arrivals to Morocco, accounting for 27.5% of international entries in 2024, this expansion supports an increasing demand for travel between the two nations. Marrakech, known for its vibrant markets and historical attractions, continues to be a popular destination, facilitated by improved air travel options.

Strategically, Royal Air Maroc is also strengthening its Casablanca hub to bolster its position as the premier aviation gateway in North Africa. Launching two weekly flights to N'Djamena, Chad, from September 17 aligns with this strategy. These night-time departures returning in the morning will facilitate European transfers. Similarly, starting September 18, flights to Sal Island, Cape Verde, will operate twice weekly with coordinated European connection timings. Additionally, a new route to Zurich starting on September 17 will be serviced twice a week by a B737-800, enhancing Casablanca's connectivity with Europe.

The expansion of Casablanca-Mohammed V International Airport is a vital component of this growth trajectory. The Moroccan government has announced plans to construct a new runway and a second terminal, increasing the airport's capacity from 15 million to 35 million passengers. Furthermore, the integration of a high-speed train station will considerably cut travel time to Rabat and Marrakech, slated for completion by 2029, aligning with Morocco’s hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Royal Air Maroc's strategic enhancements are a calculated effort to cater to increasing travel demands, solidify Casablanca's status as a primary transit hub, and leverage Morocco's geographical position as a bridge between Africa and Europe. These developments reflect the airline’s commitment to growth and its role in bolstering Morocco's connectivity on the international stage.