Morocco unveils ambitious upgrades to air navigation and airport infrastructure

Friday 14 November 2025 - 09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco unveils ambitious upgrades to air navigation and airport infrastructure

Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has announced a sweeping overhaul of the country’s air navigation system under its Airports 2030 strategy. This initiative aims to equip Morocco with a cutting-edge, resilient air traffic management system that aligns with the highest international standards.

In a statement, ONDA emphasized the progressive modernization of airport control towers, integrating state-of-the-art technological equipment to enhance efficiency and safety. The initiative also includes upskilling operational teams to streamline operations as Morocco experiences sustained growth in air traffic.

Nador Airport sets the pace for modernization

ONDA highlighted the new control tower at Nador El Aroui Airport as a model of its ambitious strategy. The recently unveiled tower, standing 26 meters tall across eight levels, reflects ONDA’s commitment to supporting regional economic and tourism development. In 2024, Nador Airport welcomed over one million passengers, underscoring the growing demand for regional air travel.

The Airports 2030 strategy further positions ONDA as a leader in air transport modernization, with a focus on safety, innovation, and world-class infrastructure.

Preparing for global events

ONDA’s announcement comes as Morocco gears up to host major global events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The country’s airports are expected to play a crucial role in welcoming fans from across the globe.

According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), ticket sales for the 2025 AFCON have already attracted significant international interest. Fans from France lead the bookings with 109,237 tickets sold, followed by Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Other significant markets include Canada, Germany, Switzerland, the US, Spain, and Italy. CAF noted that the enthusiasm for the event reflects its global appeal.

Expanding capacity for growing tourism

Morocco’s tourism sector continues to thrive, with 17.4 million visitors recorded in 2024. Projections suggest that 2025 will close with at least 18 million tourists. In response to this rising demand, ONDA recently launched a $1 billion public tender for the construction of a new terminal at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport. The project is one of the most significant infrastructure investments in Moroccan aviation history and is expected to further bolster the country’s tourism and economic prospects.

With these developments, Morocco aims to strengthen its position as a global hub for tourism and air transport, ensuring its infrastructure keeps pace with the nation’s growing ambitions.