Morocco Plans Major Airport Expansion to Welcome 80 Million Passengers by 2030
Rabat – The Moroccan government has approved an ambitious plan to increase the capacity of the country's airports from 30 million to 80 million passengers by 2030, Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh announced on Wednesday.
The investment plan, which is part of the 'Airports 2030' strategy of the National Airports Office (ONDA), aims to expand and modernize several airports, especially in cities that will host the 2030 World Cup.
Kayouh made the announcement at the ONDA Board of Directors meeting. 'We are facing major challenges, including preparations for the 2030 World Cup. This plan will help support air transport growth, improve service quality, and enhance Morocco's competitiveness as a destination,' he said.
The minister also explained that the national strategy for air transport includes a development plan for Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the country's national airline. A contract with the government aims to increase the airline's fleet from 50 to 200 aircraft by 2037.
A key part of this transformation is strengthening Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport as an international hub that would connect four continents and supporting RAM's global ambitions.
Another major project is the connection of Casablanca's airport with the high-speed train (TGV). A new railway station with international standards will be built to link air travel with road and regional rail transport.
'This will allow passengers to reach Tangier in less than two hours, Rabat in less than 30 minutes, and Marrakech in under 55 minutes. The regional rail network will also provide trains every 15 minutes, making the airport more accessible,' Kayouh stated.
The government is also focusing on developing airports in the southern and eastern regions of the country. Cities such as Beni Mellal, Ouarzazate, Zagora, Taroudant, Tata, Essmara, and Bouarfa will benefit from these upgrades to boost domestic air travel and tourism.
During the meeting, Minister Kayouh urged all board members to closely monitor the implementation of these projects and ensure their successful execution. Tags: airportMoroccoWorld Cup
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