Morocco Launches $2.8 Billion Airport Development Plan Under Vision 2030

Tuesday 22 April 2025 - 10:07

By: Zahouani Ilham

Morocco Launches $2.8 Billion Airport Development Plan Under Vision 2030

Morocco has launched a comprehensive airport modernization program worth 28 billion dirhams as part of its "Airports 2030" vision, announced Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh during a parliamentary session in Rabat.

The initiative centers on building a new international airport in Casablanca, aligning with Royal Directives to strengthen Morocco's role as a global aviation hub, especially for long-haul travel. This facility will be integrated with a high-speed rail station, allowing passengers to reach Marrakech in 50 minutes and Tangier in 30 minutes.

The new Casablanca airport is expected to support flights exceeding eight hours and aligns with plans to expand Royal Air Maroc’s fleet from 50 to 100 aircraft by 2030.

In addition to this flagship project, the government plans to expand several existing airports. Rabat-Salé will be upgraded to handle 4 million passengers, Fès airport will reach a 5 million capacity, and Sania Ramel will be enhanced to accommodate 2 million travelers.

In 2024, Morocco’s airports welcomed over 34 million passengers. This number is projected to more than double, reaching 80 million by 2030 under the national development strategy.

A major part of this vision is the construction of a modern terminal at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca, spanning 800 hectares. Once complete, it will alone accommodate 40 million passengers. Other major cities, especially those hosting the upcoming World Cup Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakech, and Agadir will also see airport expansions, with neighboring cities included to foster balanced economic growth and regional integration.

To streamline airport procedures, authorities have implemented measures like eliminating security scanners, reducing passenger exit times to under 25 minutes, and enhancing airport accessibility. Future upgrades include the adoption of electronic gates and biometric passports.

Minister Kayouh emphasized that these advancements result from close coordination with the Ministry of Interior, the General Directorate for National Security (DGSN), the Royal Gendarmerie, Customs, Civil Protection, and other key stakeholders committed to modernizing and boosting the appeal of Morocco’s airports.