Morocco‘s ambitious ‘Airports 2030‘ Plan Takes Flight
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Rabat — May 21, 2024 —
In a bold move, Morocco unveils its “Airports 2030” plan, a strategic endeavor to overhaul and expand its aviation network. This ambitious project, backed by significant investment, seeks to transform the country into a major aviation hub by doubling its current airport capacity. The Moroccan government anticipates attracting millions of tourists annually, driving economic growth and solidifying its position on the global stage. The vision aims for an extensive network of upgraded airports, and is expected to solidify Morocco’s aviation future.
Morocco’s Enterprising ‘Airports 2030’ Plan Takes Flight
Morocco is embarking on a transformative journey to modernize its aviation infrastructure with the “Airports 2030” strategy. This ambitious plan, backed by an investment of approximately 28 billion dirhams, aims to double the country’s airport capacity by 2030 and accommodate a growing influx of tourists [[3]]. The goal is to attract 26 million annual visitors and transform Morocco into a major continental and international hub [[3]], [[1]].
Casablanca: A Future Intercontinental Hub
A cornerstone of the “Airports 2030” strategy is the construction of a new international airport in Casablanca. According to Abdessamad Kayouh, Minister of Transport and Logistics, this airport is intended to become a leading intercontinental platform, ensuring the connection of the kingdom with the major world metropolises, especially on long letters.
This new hub will be directly connected to the high-speed train network (TGV), facilitating seamless travel between major cities. Travel time to Marrakech will be reduced to approximately 50 minutes, and Tangier in about an hour and 30 minutes, enhancing both national and international mobility.
Royal Air Maroc Expansion
The expansion of airport infrastructure aligns with the growth of Royal Air Maroc’s fleet. The goal is to increase the fleet from 50 to 100 aircraft by 2030. The new Casablanca airport will play a crucial role in developing air traffic to destinations exceeding 8 hours of flight.
Nationwide Airport Upgrades
In addition to Casablanca, several other airports across Morocco will undergo significant capacity upgrades:
- Rabat-Salé Airport: Capacity will increase to 4 million passengers.
- Fès-Saïs Airport: Capacity will reach 5 million passengers.
- Tétouan-Sania R’Mel Airport: Sized to accommodate up to 2 million travelers.
- Other regional platforms are undergoing extension or rehabilitation.
Ambitious Passenger Targets
Morocco has set ambitious targets for passenger traffic. in 2024, passenger traffic crossed the 34 million threshold.The “Aéroports 2030” vision aims to reach 80 million annual passengers.
Mohammed V Airport overhaul
The roadmap includes a complete overhaul of Mohammed V airport, featuring the construction of a new modern terminal extending over 800 hectares. Tenders for this project are in advanced stages. This future infrastructure will be able to absorb up to 40 million passengers, positioning Casablanca as a regional airport crossroads.
world cup 2030 Preparations
Expansion work includes the cities selected to accommodate the 2030 World Cup, including Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakech, and Agadir. Airports of neighboring cities will also be modernized to support economic, tourist, and regional logistics dynamics, ensuring a balanced national network. [[2]]
Streamlining the Passenger Experience
Kayouh highlighted several measures aimed at improving the passenger journey:
- Abolition of manual control scanners.
- Reduction of landing time at the exit of the airport within 25 minutes.
- Improvement of the accessibility and comfort of the terminals.
- Upcoming introduction of electronic porticos.
- Generalized adoption of biometric passports for increased performance and security.
Frequently Asked questions (FAQ)
- what is the “Airports 2030” strategy?
- It is indeed Morocco’s plan to modernize its aviation infrastructure and double airport capacity by 2030.
- How much is being invested in this project?
- Approximately 28 billion dirhams.
- What is the passenger target for 2030?
- 80 million annual passengers.
- Which airports are being upgraded?
- Casablanca, Rabat-Salé, Fès-Saïs, Tétouan-Sania R’Mel, and other regional platforms.
- How will passenger experience be improved?
- Through measures like abolishing manual scanners, reducing landing times, and introducing biometric passports.
