Royal Air Maroc Boosts Fleet and Global Routes
Royal Air Maroc is gearing up for significant growth as it prepares to add 20 aircraft to its fleet by the end of 2026, according to official sources cited by the Moroccan digital newspaper Rue20. Currently operating a fleet of 56 aircraft, including those of its subsidiary Royal Air Maroc Express, the carrier is charting an ambitious course to expand to 73 aircraft by 2027. This expansion is part of the airline’s broader strategy to modernize and strengthen its network, with aspirations to boost connectivity between Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
The airline’s chief executive, Abdelhamid Addou, recently discussed a vision for a comprehensive fleet renewal that could see an order for up to 188 new jets with an estimated budget of USD 25 billion. While that massive order has not yet been placed, it underscores the airline’s commitment to long-term growth and modernization. In the short term, Royal Air Maroc is taking measured steps toward expanding its fleet. Data from ch-aviation fleets indicates that the carrier will add four more Boeing 737-8 aircraft through a dry lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation in 2025, further enhancing its short- to medium-haul capabilities.
In addition to expanding its fleet, Royal Air Maroc is revitalizing its international route network. The airline has resumed regular passenger services to China and Brazil after a five-year hiatus. Flights on the Casablanca Mohammed V to Beijing Capital and São Paulo Guarulhos routes are operated using Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with each route maintaining a frequency of three flights per week. This move is expected to not only boost passenger numbers but also support the airline’s cargo operations. On the Beijing route, Royal Air Maroc is reportedly achieving satisfactory cargo performance, with flights carrying approximately 30 tonnes of cargo each way. This integration of passenger and cargo services is a strategic effort to maximize revenue while positioning Casablanca as a major hub for international trade.
The airline’s vice president of cargo, Yassine Berrada, has expressed the company’s commitment to leveraging its geographic advantage by further developing Casablanca into a key transit and trade hub. This vision aligns with the broader goal of connecting Africa to the major economic regions of Asia and the Americas, thereby supporting both tourism and commerce.
Furthermore, Royal Air Maroc has supplemented its fleet with wet-leased aircraft to support seasonal operations. Two Airbus A330-200s have been acquired on a wet-lease basis from Hi Fly Malta and Iberojet of Spain. These aircraft, registered as 9H-HFI (msn 805) and EC-LXA (msn 670), were deployed in the airline’s network from February 23 to March 5 to service flights between Moroccan airports and Madinah, specifically catering to Umrah pilgrims. This initiative not only demonstrates the airline’s ability to adapt to fluctuating demand but also highlights its commitment to serving diverse market segments, including religious tourism.
Royal Air Maroc’s fleet expansion and route enhancements signal a robust strategy for long-term growth. With a focus on modernizing its fleet, expanding its network, and optimizing its cargo operations, the airline is positioning itself to compete more effectively in the global aviation market while continuing to serve as a vital link between continents. The coming years promise a period of dynamic change and opportunity for the Moroccan carrier, as it looks to build on its strong foundation and embrace new challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com