Morocco's ambitious airport expansion plan aims for 80 million passengers by 2030

Friday 04 April 2025 - 14:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's ambitious airport expansion plan aims for 80 million passengers by 2030

The Moroccan government has unveiled a bold initiative to increase the capacity of its airports from 30 million to 80 million passengers by 2030, as announced by Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh. This strategic plan is part of the “Airports 2030” initiative led by the National Airports Office (ONDA) and aims to enhance and modernize several airports, particularly in cities designated to host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

During a recent ONDA Board of Directors meeting, Kayouh emphasized the significant challenges ahead, particularly in preparation for the 2030 World Cup. He stated, “This plan will help support air transport growth, improve service quality, and enhance Morocco’s competitiveness as a destination.”

Central to this initiative is the development plan for Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the national airline. A contract with the government aims to expand RAM’s fleet from 50 to 200 aircraft by 2037, positioning Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport as a pivotal international hub connecting four continents and supporting RAM’s global ambitions.

In addition to airport expansions, a key component of the project is improving connectivity between Casablanca’s airport and the high-speed train network. A new railway station, designed to meet international standards, will facilitate seamless transfers between air travel and regional rail transport. Kayouh noted that this enhancement will allow passengers to reach Tangier in under two hours, Rabat in less than 30 minutes, and Marrakech in under 55 minutes, with trains running every 15 minutes to ensure accessibility.

The government is also committed to upgrading airports in the southern and eastern regions, with cities like Beni Mellal, Ouarzazate, Zagora, Taroudant, Tata, Essmara, and Bouarfa set to benefit from these developments aimed at boosting domestic air travel and tourism.

Minister Kayouh urged board members to closely monitor the implementation of these ambitious projects to ensure their successful execution, signaling a significant step forward for Morocco’s aviation infrastructure.