Morocco's Air Traffic Soars: Record 18.1 Million Passengers by July 2024

Morocco's air transport sector has achieved a significant milestone, welcoming a record 18.1 million passengers in the first seven months of 2024, according to the Directorate of Studies and Financial Forecasts (DEPF) under the Ministry of Economy and Finance. This marks an impressive 18.5% increase compared to the same period last year, underscoring the sector's robust recovery and sustained growth.

The surge in passenger numbers reflects double-digit growth across both international and domestic routes. International traffic saw a 17.9% increase, while domestic flights surged by 24.6%, according to DEPF’s latest economic report, which cites data from the Office National des Aéroports (ONDA).

The report highlights the resilience of air traffic at major airports across the country. Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport, Morocco’s busiest hub, recorded a 6.4% rise in passenger numbers. Tourist hotspots like Marrakech and Agadir saw remarkable increases of 30.2% and 34.6% respectively, while other key airports such as Tangier (+20%), Rabat-Salé (+40.4%), and Dakhla (+33.2%) also contributed to the sector's growth.

Regionally, Europe remains the dominant market, with a 19% rise in air traffic, followed by the Middle and Far East (+12.1%), Africa (+16.4%), North America (+8.4%), and the Maghreb region (+7.6%).

The positive trend extended to air freight and airport movements, which grew by 24.2% and 14.8% respectively by the end of July. The month of July alone set a new benchmark, with the sector handling over 3 million passengers, a year-on-year increase of 14.8%.

This remarkable performance reflects the sector's resilience and adaptability, as well as the growing appeal of Morocco as a tourist destination. The data underscores the country's strategic position in global air traffic and its commitment to maintaining high standards of service and safety.

As Morocco continues to invest in its aviation infrastructure and enhance its tourism offerings, the future looks promising for sustained growth in air traffic. The sector's robust recovery is a testament to the country's effective management and strategic planning, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global aviation industry.