Morocco Strengthens Role in Sahara Airspace Management

Thursday 26 December 2024 - 13:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco Strengthens Role in Sahara Airspace Management

Morocco has reportedly extended its control over parts of Sahara's airspace, previously managed under Spanish authority. Sources indicate that this expansion covers approximately 15% to 20% of the region’s airspace.

Spanish media outlet El Independiente reported that Morocco has unilaterally made this move, citing "reliable sources." The measures include establishing air exclusion zones for military exercises, updating aeronautical maps, and limiting communication with local airports. These changes align with longstanding discussions between Spain and Morocco about transferring airspace management to Morocco.

Both nations have engaged in confidential negotiations this year, building on a broader effort to resolve territorial disputes. A technical commission, tasked with addressing operational and security aspects, has already convened twice. This commission forms part of a roadmap established in April 2022, which sought to resolve tensions stemming from the hospitalization of Polisario Front leader Brahim Gahli in Spain. This roadmap explicitly includes airspace management discussions.

Morocco’s Casablanca-based aviation authority, ONDA, coordinates with Spain’s ENAIRE for flight operations. While ONDA grants initial clearances for flights entering and exiting airports in southern Morocco, overall control of the airspace has historically remained under Spanish jurisdiction.

The airspace management debate reflects broader geopolitical dynamics. Spain has acknowledged Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as a credible framework for resolving the Sahara dispute, signaling support for Morocco’s territorial integrity.

This development underscores Morocco's commitment to bolstering bilateral cooperation with Spain while advancing its strategic interests in the Sahara region.