Morocco Invests MAD 9.7 Million $950,000 for Comprehensive Airport Upgrade Study

Morocco's General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC) has earmarked a substantial investment of MAD 9.7 million ($950,000) for a comprehensive study aimed at upgrading 20 national airports across the country. Launched through an international tender, this initiative seeks to develop a cohesive blueprint for airport development, considering anticipated air traffic evolution up to 2045.

The decision stems from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a fresh assessment of the country's airport infrastructure requirements. The previous airport master plan, formulated over a decade ago, has become obsolete due to significant fluctuations in air travel patterns observed in recent years.

The study's scope includes a thorough examination of each airport's development potential, with a focus on optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing the overall passenger experience. Notably, Casablanca's international airport is excluded from this study as it is undergoing a separate evaluation process.

Scheduled to unfold over 420 days, the study comprises five distinct phases. These phases encompass the analysis and forecasting of traffic patterns, the formulation of tailored development projects for each airport, and the establishment of a systematic framework for monitoring and implementing the study's findings.

The primary goal of this initiative is to facilitate informed decision-making by providing accurate financial estimates for proposed infrastructure enhancements and prioritizing projects based on their anticipated impact. This approach aims to ensure the efficient and strategic allocation of resources to modernize and upgrade Morocco's aviation infrastructure.

Morocco's commitment to this comprehensive airport study aligns with the country's broader infrastructure development plans, including the joint bid with Spain and Portugal to host the 2030 World Cup. In March 2024, the Spanish public engineering company, Ineco, was awarded the contract for the expansion and modernization of Casablanca International Airport, further highlighting the nation's dedication to enhancing its aviation capabilities.

Beyond airports, Morocco is heavily investing in other key infrastructure projects, including stadium construction and the development of a road network connecting the country to Spain. Additionally, the National Office of Railways has pledged to invest MAD 16 billion ($1.56 billion) as part of its comprehensive development plan leading up to 2030.

This comprehensive airport study marks a significant milestone in Morocco's ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen its aviation infrastructure, positioning the country as a regional leader in transportation and connectivity.