Royal Air Maroc strengthens fleet with new Boeing 737 MAX 8 deliveries

Saturday 19 July 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Royal Air Maroc strengthens fleet with new Boeing 737 MAX 8 deliveries

Royal Air Maroc (RAM), Morocco's national airline, has bolstered its fleet with the arrival of a new Boeing 737 MAX 8, delivered on July 15. This move is part of an ambitious modernization plan aimed at enhancing the carrier’s capacity and global reach.

Expanding the fleet

The delivery flight, piloted by Commander Naoual Ait Hammou Ennaji, was a milestone event. “My most beautiful birthday gift? Being at the controls and bringing home a brand new B737 MAX,” the pilot shared on social media. RAM expects a second Boeing 737 MAX 8 to arrive before the end of July, bringing the fleet to 57 aircraft.

This expansion follows the delivery of three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in late May, including two leased from Dubai-based EDA. The acquisitions form part of a broader strategy outlined by Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, during a recent parliamentary session. RAM plans to integrate 20 new planes into its fleet between 2025 and 2026, including Boeing 737 MAX 8s and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

Preparing for global events

The fleet expansion coincides with Morocco's preparations for hosting the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and its bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These events are expected to drive significant demand for air travel, and RAM has committed to positioning Casablanca as a key aviation hub connecting Africa to the world.

The airline plans to offer over 6.6 million seats during summer 2025, a record for the carrier, across 95 destinations. New routes to cities such as São Paulo, Toronto, Beijing, and Catania are part of the expansion.

Enhancing efficiency and sustainability

RAM’s modernization strategy prioritizes energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and passenger comfort. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, known for its low fuel consumption and extended range, will enable the airline to optimize operations and explore new routes, particularly in Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.

RAM CEO Hamid Addou has acknowledged challenges with delayed deliveries but remains optimistic. In an interview with CNN, Addou noted, “The rhythm of production is increasing, which is a good sign.” He confirmed that RAM expects to receive seven additional aircraft by the end of December.

Aiming for 200 aircraft by 2037

Looking ahead, RAM plans to quadruple its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, as outlined in its program contract with the state. Two-thirds of the new planes will be small-capacity aircraft to enhance regional and continental connectivity, while the remainder will consist of wide-body aircraft for long-haul routes.

Although Boeing remains RAM’s primary supplier, the airline is also evaluating proposals from Airbus and Embraer. Addou emphasized RAM’s competitive edge on the north-south route between Africa and Europe, while acknowledging the challenges posed by low-cost carriers in the region.

With these developments, RAM is poised to consolidate its position as a leading carrier in Africa while expanding its global footprint.