Monday, September 16, 2024

Morocco plans to double its air infrastructure by 2035

Must read

  1. Royal Air Maroc’s expansion plans and advances in safety and connectivity
  2. International Commitments and Regional Cooperation 
  3. Environmental commitments and the future of aviation in Africa 

The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohamed Abdeljalil, announced in Rabat that Morocco will work on the expansion and renovation of several airports to reach a capacity of 80 million passengers by 2035, compared to the current 40 million. These initiatives are part of the Kingdom’s preparations for the joint hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. 

Mohamed Abdeljalil, Moroccan Minister of Transport and Logistics – ATALAYAR/GUILLERMO LÓPEZ

As reported by media outlet Rue20, during the opening of the 28th session of the General Assembly of the Arab Civil Aviation Organisation, Abdeljalil stressed that improvements will include the modernisation of air navigation equipment and the expansion of air connectivity, especially for low-cost flights, emphasising the crucial role of civil aviation in major international events. 

Royal Air Maroc’s expansion plans and advances in safety and connectivity

Ilustración de Cyber ​​Security - REUTERS/DADO RUVIC
Cyber Security Illustration – REUTERS/DADO RUVIC

The minister also announced that Royal Air Maroc plans to quadruple its aircraft fleet by 2037, with the goal of turning Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport into a major intercontinental hub.

In addition, Abdeljalil detailed Morocco’s efforts in cybersecurity and digital transformation within the field of international civil aviation, as well as its commitment to legal and regulatory changes to advance this strategic sector. 

International Commitments and Regional Cooperation 

Oficinas de Royal Air Maroc en Rabat - REUTERS/JIHED ABIDELLAOUI
Royal Air Maroc offices in Rabat – REUTERS/JIHED ABIDELLAOUI

The minister highlighted that Morocco has significantly improved its civil aviation security inspection rate, reaching 85.25% compliance with international standards. He also mentioned the country’s continuous efforts to renew and sign air service agreements with various nations, thus strengthening its air connectivity network.

In terms of international agreements, Abdeljalil underlined the acceleration of the ratification process of the Protocol amending Articles 50(a) and 56 of the Chicago Convention, crucial for the future regulation and expansion of civil aviation.

Environmental commitments and the future of aviation in Africa 

Sede de la Organización de Aviación Civil Internacional (OACI) en Montreal, Quebec, Canadá - REUTERS/CHRISTINNE MUSCHI
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Headquarters in Montreal, Quebec, Canada – REUTERS/CHRISTINNE MUSCHI

The minister highlighted Morocco’s commitment to international and regional targets to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in aviation by 2050, as well as the importance of strengthening cooperation between Arab countries in the field of civil aviation. This includes continuous adaptation to international standards and technological development to improve efficiency and safety in the sector.

Finally, Abdeljalil emphasised Morocco’s continued participation in African Union projects  to improve the air transport system on the continent, as well as the strengthening of relations with the European Union to develop the air transport sector and improve safety standards in civil aviation, stressing the importance of regional cooperation in the implementation of global programmes overseen by the Arab Civil Aviation Organisation.

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