Get ready for a major shakeup in the skies above Morocco! Royal Air Maroc, the country's national carrier, is about to embark on a massive fleet expansion, and it's all set to begin in just a few years. But here's where it gets controversial...
In a recent statement, CEO Abdelhamid Addou revealed that the airline expects to start receiving new aircraft as early as 2028. This ambitious plan involves a tender for up to 200 aircraft by 2037, with offers currently being evaluated from industry giants like Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer.
The tender, which was launched in April 2024, is a significant move for Royal Air Maroc. Addou explained that approximately 25% of the order will consist of wide-body aircraft, while the remaining 75% will be narrow-body jets. While the exact value of the tender remains undisclosed, the airline anticipates receiving an average of 15 new aircraft annually from 2028 onwards.
In the meantime, Royal Air Maroc plans to introduce up to 13 aircraft per year through leasing arrangements, ensuring a steady growth in its fleet. But why is this fleet expansion so crucial for the airline?
Royal Air Maroc aims to solidify its position as a regional hub carrier, connecting Africa with Europe and the Americas. By strengthening its fleet, the airline can better cater to the increasing demand for air travel between these continents.
And this is the part most people miss: Morocco is not just expanding its airline fleet; it's also investing in infrastructure. A separate tender has been launched for a new airport terminal, which will boost passenger capacity to a whopping 35 million by 2029, a significant jump from the current 10.5 million.
So, what do you think? Is this a smart move by Royal Air Maroc, or is it a risky venture? Share your thoughts in the comments below! We'd love to hear your opinions on this exciting development in the aviation industry.
