
Morocco has set its sights on becoming a premier aviation crossroads between continents with the launch of its groundbreaking "Airports 2030" initiative, a $2.8 billion investment package designed to revolutionize its airport infrastructure and elevate the nation’s status as a global travel gateway.
Spearheaded by Transport and Logistics Minister Abdessamad Kayouh, the strategy seeks to more than double annual airport passenger capacity to 80 million by the decade’s end, while integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable transport networks.
Central to the plan is the construction of a sprawling new international airport near Casablanca, strategically positioned alongside the existing Mohammed V Airport. Spanning 800 hectares, the facility will handle up to 40 million passengers annually, specializing in long-haul routes to strengthen Morocco’s connectivity with Africa, Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
The project will be complemented by significant upgrades to regional airports, including Rabat-Salé (expanding to 4 million passengers), Fez (5 million), and Sania Ramel (2 million), ensuring balanced development across the country.
In a bid to enhance passenger convenience and reduce environmental impact, the strategy incorporates high-speed rail links directly connecting the new Casablanca hub to key cities. Travelers will enjoy rapid transfers, with Marrakech accessible in under 60 minutes and Tangier within 90 minutes—a seamless intermodal system designed to attract tourists and streamline domestic transit.
National carrier Royal Air Maroc is poised for a transformative fleet expansion, doubling its aircraft count to 100 by 2030, with an ambitious target of 200 planes by 2037. This growth will enable the airline to serve emerging markets and reinforce Casablanca’s role as a transit hub for international travelers.
The program also emphasizes technological innovation, with plans to deploy biometric screening, automated baggage systems, and AI-driven passenger flow management to reduce wait times and bolster security. These advancements align with Morocco’s broader goals of hosting major events like the 2030 FIFA World Cup—which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal—and capitalizing on a projected tourism surge.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has endorsed the strategy, noting aviation’s critical contribution to Morocco’s economy, which currently generates $11.2 billion annually and sustains over 850,000 jobs. With its focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and regional connectivity, Morocco’s aviation blueprint not only prepares the country for future growth but also positions it as a trailblazer in Africa’s rapidly evolving air travel sector.
By prioritizing efficiency, innovation, and global integration, the "Airports 2030" initiative underscores Morocco’s vision to emerge as a leading player in international aviation, setting benchmarks for operational excellence and passenger experience across the continent.