Moroccan Airports Soar with 14% Traffic Surge in Q1 2024
Moroccan airports experienced a significant increase in air traffic during the first quarter of 2024, indicating a thriving tourism industry. According to reports from the National Airports Office (ONDA), the total number of passengers reached 6.8 million by the end of March, representing a 14% increase compared to the previous year.
The skies above Morocco were bustling with activity, with the number of flights surpassing 51,000 during the first three months, an 11% increase year over year. ONDA attributes this growth to the addition of new air routes, increased flight frequencies, and consistently high aircraft occupancy rates, often exceeding 90% and sometimes reaching full capacity.
Leading the charge in this air traffic surge is the iconic Marrakech-Menara Airport, which saw a remarkable 22% increase in passenger traffic. The appeal of this vibrant city has been enhanced by 10 new international routes and 4 domestic weekly flights, drawing travelers from all over the world. As a result, aircraft occupancy rates have consistently surpassed 90%.
Other Moroccan airports also experienced significant growth, with Agadir recording a 23% increase, Rabat-Sale reaching 32%, Dakhla climbing 19%, Essaouira ascending 38%, and Ouarzazate achieving an impressive 36% rise.
Agadir-Al Massira Airport, in particular, stood out as a beacon of growth, introducing 13 new international air routes and adding 19 more weekly flights. This expansion further cements Morocco's reputation as a premier travel destination.
Looking ahead, ONDA anticipates continued growth in 2024, with total passenger traffic projected to exceed 30 million. Marrakech-Menara Airport is expected to lead the way with a projected 23% increase, closely followed by Agadir and Tangier airports with 22% and 13% growth, respectively.
In parallel with the surge in passenger air travel, the cargo sector is also experiencing significant growth. The volume of transported goods has increased by 30% annually, reaching an impressive 23,802 tonnes.
As Moroccan airports continue to reach new heights, the country's tourism industry is poised for unprecedented success, solidifying Morocco's position as a global travel hotspot and underscoring the nation's commitment to welcoming visitors from around the world.