Morocco has launched its ‘Airports 2030 Strategy’, a comprehensive plan to modernize airport infrastructure and enhance the country’s position as a key aviation hub. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to boost economic and social development.
Aviation plays a crucial role in Morocco’s economy, contributing $11.2 billion (7.9%) to GDP in 2023 and supporting 856,000 jobs. The country also saw 11.7 million international passengers and handled 77,900 tonnes of air cargo last year. Given this growing importance, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, Kamil Al-Awadhi, emphasized that the strategy will drive future growth, urging collaboration between airlines and authorities to ensure cost-efficiency.
Key Priorities for Morocco to Maximize the Investments
- Cost-Efficiency: Keeping airport charges, taxes, and fees competitive to encourage connectivity and avoid financial strain on airlines and passengers.
- Capacity-Building: Investing in human resources to develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting airport modernization.
- Consumer Regulation: Establishing smart, industry-aligned passenger rights laws instead of adopting ineffective foreign policies.
The strategy also aligns with Morocco’s role as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, further strengthening its position as a gateway linking Africa, Europe, and North America.