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Morocco World
4 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Takes Flight at Paris Air Show, Signaling Its Rise as an Aerospace Hub
Rabat – Morocco is taking center stage at the 55th Paris Air Show in Le Bourget between June 16-22, joining more than 2,500 exhibitors, over 130,000 professional visitors, and 322 official delegations. Morocco's Participation is far from ceremonial, as it's a carefully crafted move in the country's broader strategy to cement its role as a high‑value aeronautics hub. From the outset, the Moroccan delegation has outlined the strategic importance of the Bourget showcase. Minister of Industry Ryad Mezzour and Minister of Transport Abdessamad Kayouh, in addition to Minister in charge of investment Karim Zidane, lead the delegation, which also includes top executives from Royal Air Maroc, AMDIE, ONDA and GIMAS. Strategic presence The delegation represents Morocco with a clear message: Morocco is open for business, with an ecosystem ready to scale. The AMDIE-GIMAS 'Pavillon Maroc' hosts six homegrown champions in wiring, precision machining, and aerostructure. Alongside exhibition stands, a packed schedule of one‑on‑one meetings will connect Moroccan suppliers to decision‑makers and international companies operating across the entire aerospace value chain. The discussions are expected to promote the investment opportunities available in industrial zones like Nouaceur and Tangier Free Zone, where companies benefit from tax incentives, fast-track administrative support, and access to a skilled labor force trained through public-private programs. Beyond these activities, Morocco's presence at the Paris Air Show reflects a deeper strategy built around core priorities. Over the past two decades, Morocco has identified aeronautics as a 'strategic sector' capable of driving industrial diversification, job creation, and technology transfer. Today, over 140 firms operate in Morocco's aerospace cluster, spanning wiring harnesses, precision machining, assembly, and engineering services, with a local integration rate exceeding 40%. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, 'a strong aerospace industry has developed over the past 20 years, now offering incredible potential and opportunities for global players in the sector,' said Mezzour in a statement about Morocco's participation in the Paris Air Show. The country is focused on upgrading its industrial base by moving up the value chain. This includes producing wiring harnesses and simple subassemblies, as well as manufacturing high-precision engine components that require tighter tolerances, advanced alloys, and more sophisticated quality control systems. Nouaceur, Morocco's aerospace engine Morocco is also working to attract major international investors, with recent examples including Pratt & Whitney Canada's new engine parts facility in Midparc Free Zone in Nouaceur. The new manufacturing facility, inaugurated in May 2024, served as a key milestone in the diversification of Morocco's aerospace ecosystem. Named Pratt & Whitney Morocco (PWM), the plant will machine high‑precision static and structural parts for the PT6 and other turboprop engines. Beyond its immediate output, PWM symbolizes the shift from assembling airframe components to manufacturing engine parts, a change that demands advanced machining centers, tighter tolerances, and a workforce trained in aerospace metallurgy and quality assurance. Notably, Canada's Shimco, a global provider of engineered fastening solutions and assembly technology, also established a presence in the Midparc industrial platform at Nouaceur, In addition, the country is investing heavily in human capital, as it is expanding training programs at the Institut des Métiers de l'Aéronautique (IMA) and strengthening partnerships between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Moroccan universities. The goal is to certify thousands of technicians in critical areas such as CNC machining, metrology, and composite materials. This aims to ensure that the workforce can keep pace with the industry's technological demands. In Nouaceur, the Pratt & Whitney Morocco plant is already installing ultra‑high‑precision five‑axis machining centres, poised to deliver stator rings and structural brackets for the PT6 turboprop engine. Shimco's fastening‑technology line, meanwhile, will serve both aerospace and adjacent sectors, leveraging Midparc's connectivity to Mohammed V Airport and the Tanger Med port. This twin push of deepening aeronautics while knitting together automotive and renewable‑energy investments reflects Morocco's ambition to hedge against single‑industry risk. The country aims to boost installed solar and wind capacity by 6.5 GW by 2027, targeting a 52 % share of renewables by 2030. In the medium term, Nouaceur and the surrounding Free Zones are poised to become a dynamic corridor where aerospace, automotive, and green energy industries intersect. Morocco's strategy is delivering results, as local integration rates in aeronautics have climbed above 40 %, exports now exceed $ 2 billion annually, and the aerospace workforce tops 40,000. But more than numbers, the country is winning investors' trust. By offering turn‑key investment packages, streamlined logistics, and a growing cadre of certified technicians, Morocco has shown that it can deliver the precision and reliability once exclusive to traditional European clusters. Tags: AeronauticsAerospaceParis Air Show
Morocco World
11-06-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Royal Air Maroc to Renew Fleet with New Orders From Boeing, Airbus
Rabat — Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is expected to renew its fleet through a new deal with Boeing, as well as a new small order from Airbus. Reuters quoted industry sources as saying that Royal Air Maroc is close to securing a deal with Boeing for dozens of jets. Europe's Airbus, however, is also seeking to supply the Moroccan carrier with a small order for 20 A220 jets. 'The sources asked not to be named because the negotiations are not public,' Reuters reported , noting that talks have been ongoing for over a year to enable Royal Air Maroc to renew its virtually all-Boeing fleet. The company is expected to cling to its traditional supplier for its demands, including the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner. 'While the fleet plan reinforces the carrier's historic ties with Boeing, the sources said, it opens the door to Airbus for the first time in almost 25 years with an order for the A220,' the news outlet said. It also recalled that the potential order from Airbus comes as Morocco and France are boosting bilateral ties at all levels. These ties have been building rapidly ever since France's historic decision to recognize Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara in July of last year. Earlier this month, Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh said in a parliamentary session on June 3 that Royal Air Maroc plans to acquire 10 more aircraft before the end of the year and another 10 in 2026. He said that the company also welcomed three Boeing 787 Dreamliners during the first week of June, on top of two new planes delivered earlier this year. In 2023, Royal Air Maroc announced that it is seeking to increase its fleet of commercial aircraft, boosting the number from 50 to 200 over the next 15 years. The program is part of the government's pledges to support the tourism roadmap. Morocco's ambition is to attract 65 million tourists by 2037. In 2024, the North African country celebrated a major milestone, welcoming over 17.4 million tourists. Tags: Royal Air Maroc (RAM)Royal Air Maroc Best Airline in Africa
Morocco World
04-06-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Royal Air Maroc Sets Sights on 200-Strong Fleet by 2037
Rabat – Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is charting an ambitious course for growth, adding new aircraft and preparing for a major transformation of its global reach. The national carrier recently welcomed three Boeing 787 Dreamliners over just two days, on top of two new planes delivered earlier this year. This brings the total number of new aircraft for 2025 to five. Transport and Logistics Minister Abdessamad Kayouh shared the update during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, June 3. He said RAM plans to acquire ten more aircraft before the end of the year and another ten in 2026. Each new Dreamliner holds 302 passengers – a capacity that signals the airline's steady push to meet growing demand. But the airline's ambitions stretch far beyond short-term additions. A major call for tenders will soon be launched to purchase 188 additional aircraft. The move forms part of a long-term agreement between the Moroccan state and RAM, covering 2023 to 2037. By the end of this roadmap, the airline aims to expand its fleet from 50 to 200 planes. At the heart of this strategy lies a sharp increase in passenger numbers. RAM intends to move from transporting six million passengers annually to 31 million by 2037. The company also projects its revenue to rise from MAD 15.5 billion ($1.6 billion) to MAD 100 billion ($10.4 billion) within the same timeframe. To support this shift, the airline will broaden its international footprint. From 99 destinations in 2023, RAM looks to reach 130 cities in the coming years. The plan reflects a clear ambition to establish RAM as a serious player among global carriers. Kayouh also recalled a recent partnership with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). Under this agreement, RAM will serve as the official airline for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Direct flights will connect continents, positioning Morocco as a gateway between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Meanwhile, the government also wants to strengthen air travel inside the country. More domestic routes are set to open, in order to boost local tourism and make Morocco's regions more accessible to both residents and visitors. Tags: economyMorocco fleetplanesRAMRoyal Air Maroc
Morocco World
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Morocco World
Morocco Advances AI in Transport with New Research Partnerships
Rabat – Morocco is taking a strategic step toward incorporating AI deeper into its transport systems. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics signed three tailored agreements with the Foundation for Research, Development and Innovation in Science and Engineering (FRDISI), with the presence of Minister of Transport Abdessamad Kayouh and Royal Advisor André Azoulay. The ceremony, held in Rabat, signaled a clear intent to turn Morocco's transport, airport, and logistics infrastructure into a testing ground for homegrown innovation. These agreements follow a broader framework established in June 2024 between the ministry and FRDISI that reflects a long-term vision to bolster the role of scientific research in vital sectors. Each agreement serves a specific goal. The first, between FRDISI and the National Railway Operator (ONCF), lays the groundwork for integrating AI into the management of intermodal transport. It also includes plans to automate how surface defects are identified on high-speed trains, an effort that could raise safety and efficiency on the country's rail network. The second agreement connects FRDISI with the National Airports Office (ONDA). It centers on enhancing cognitive performance in air traffic operations, a move designed to sharpen vigilance and reinforce safety. The project also includes the development of a real-time mobile application to ease passenger flows inside Moroccan airports. The third partnership, between FRDISI and the National Company of Transport and Logistics (SNTL), introduces machine learning to fleet management. The goal is to improve vehicle maintenance and performance through data-driven insights. Read also: Morocco Revamps Transport Sector with New Safety and Service Quality Standards Kayouh described the initiative as part of Morocco's broader ambition to promote innovation in key economic areas. He also noted that FRDISI, with over 40 inventions to its name, would provide valuable support to national efforts to stay ahead of global developments. He also underlined the importance of empowering Moroccan researchers and engineers to design solutions tailored to the country's needs, rather than relying on imported technologies that may not always fit local realities. For André Azoulay, the moment represents a meaningful change. He called the agreements 'a turning point,' adding that they allow FRDISI's network of top-tier scientists to work directly with public institutions on strategic projects. With its public utility status, FRDISI stands at the crossroads of research, training, and industrial development. It also supports the innovation ecosystem through startup incubation, collaborative projects, and the launch of new small enterprises. This move aligns with Morocco's broader development goals, which place innovation and self-reliance at the core of national progress. As the country prepares to co-host major international events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, the integration of advanced technologies into transport and logistics is expected to play a key role in ensuring efficiency, safety, and global readiness.
Morocco World
08-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Civil Aviation: Morocco Among Arab Candidates for ICAO Council Seat
Rabat – The Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) has officially approved a list of Arab countries, including Morocco, to run for seats on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council. During an extraordinary general assembly held Thursday in Rabat, ACAO member states endorsed candidates from two categories. Alongside Morocco, the list includes Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The initiative aims to ensure a stronger Arab voice in the ICAO Council ahead of its 42nd General Assembly, scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 3, 2025 in Montreal. Speaking at the assembly, Morocco's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, emphasized the importance of a unified Arab representation that reflects the growing influence and strategic role of the civil aviation sector in Arab economies. 'A strong Arab presence in the ICAO Council will highlight the vital contribution of civil aviation to economic and social development—not only in Arab countries, but globally,' Kayouh said. He also stressed the need for Arab nations to keep pace with rapidly evolving developments in aviation, from legal frameworks to technological innovations. Kayouh expressed optimism that a harmonized Arab vision would help secure broader international support from other regional blocs, thereby increasing the chances of Arab candidates winning a substantial number of votes. The minister also announced that Morocco has completed architectural plans and secured land for the construction of ACAO's new headquarters, reaffirming the country's commitment to enhancing the organization's working environment. A contractor for the project will be selected soon. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of ACAO's Executive Council, noted that discussions during the assembly also tackled pressing issues in civil aviation, including air safety and the integration of modern technologies. He stressed the importance of coordinated Arab efforts in addressing industry challenges and preparing for the ICAO elections. He called for a unified Arab stance within international aviation institutions, underscoring the need for deeper cooperation with other regional blocs to boost mutual support during elections. The ACAO assembly marks a strategic step in aligning Arab countries' policies, strengthening technical and regulatory capacities, and reinforcing their collective presence on the international aviation stage. An agency under the Arab League, ACAO seeks to advance collaboration among Arab nations in civil aviation, while promoting shared policies, developing technological capabilities, and advocating for Arab interests in global aviation governance. Tags: aviation in moroccoICAO councilMorocco
