Transforming Aviation into a Global Connector
Abdel Samad Kayouh, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, has asserted that air travel has evolved beyond mere transportation, now serving as a foundational pillar for enhancing global connectivity, a significant driver of international trade, and a catalyst for economic and social development. During the opening of the fifth global conference aimed at supporting the implementation of civil aviation standards held in Marrakech, Kayouh highlighted the rapid evolution of the aviation sector, which presents critical challenges that necessitate strengthening the industry’s resilience, accelerating digital transformation, fostering innovation, and ensuring effective implementation of international standards across all member states.
In his remarks, the Minister emphasized Morocco's active participation in the dynamic growth of the air transport sector, noting that Moroccan airports welcomed over 36 million passengers in 2025. This surge is attributed to the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to develop this sector and its ability to host major global and regional events, including the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. The mentioned growth aligns with approximately 270,000 aircraft movements recorded across various Moroccan airports.
Positioning Morocco as a Regional Aviation Hub
Morocco's strategic position as a regional air transport hub is being strengthened by an extensive network connecting over 170 direct international destinations, serviced by more than 70 airlines operating regular flights to and from the country. This dynamic development is supported by advanced infrastructure that includes 18 modern international airports compliant with international standards, with Mohammed V International Airport serving as a critical air traffic hub linking Africa to the rest of the world.
Furthermore, the Minister pointed out that the performance of the national airline, Royal Air Maroc, significantly contributes to enhancing Morocco's international presence. The airline offers a network of over 90 destinations worldwide, which reinforces the Kingdom’s air connectivity with its international partners, thereby solidifying its role as a link between Europe, Africa, America, and the Middle East.
Kayouh also stressed that the conference is taking place against a backdrop of increasing global air transport dynamics, with projections indicating that international air traffic will continue to grow in the coming decades. The number of passengers is expected to rise from approximately 5 billion in 2025 to nearly 14 billion by 2050. This growth is primarily driven by the dynamism in emerging economies, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, Africa, and the Middle East, propelled by economic growth, rising living standards, and an expanding middle class, alongside improved air connectivity and advancements in aviation infrastructure.
Recognizing the rapid growth of the sector as not just a positive indicator of its vitality, Kayouh emphasized the responsibility to enhance infrastructure, accelerate digital transformation, and strengthen safety, security, and sustainability standards. Under the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco's efforts align with a proactive vision to keep pace with the increasing air transport movement, expand its international and regional air connectivity, and reinforce Morocco's position as a continental and regional aviation gateway, especially in light of the major international events the Kingdom is preparing to host, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Moreover, the fruitful collaboration between Morocco and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has led to significant progress in adhering to safety and security standards, thereby reinforcing the civil aviation sector within the Kingdom. Morocco has developed a comprehensive civil aviation system, achieving an 87% compliance rate within the ICAO global safety oversight audit program, reflecting a high level of commitment to air safety and security standards and confirming the effectiveness of the regulatory framework and governance model adopted in the civil aviation sector.
In terms of modernization efforts, Morocco is implementing an integrated vision focusing on digitalization and updating various airport components through advanced technological solutions, including the Advanced Passenger Information (API) system and Passenger Name Record (PNR). These systems will allow for the precise and timely processing of passenger data, enhancing risk analysis, and expediting monitoring procedures through streamlined passenger pathways. Additionally, the monitoring system has been bolstered with advanced scanning devices for both passengers and luggage, electronic gates, smart pathway systems, and biometric measurement technologies that facilitate faster identity verification and reduce waiting times. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive approach aimed at ensuring smoother passenger movement within airports while improving service quality and operational efficiency in line with international standards and best practices in the aviation sector.
The fifth session of the international conference organized by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, in partnership with ICAO, is set to continue until April 16, under the theme "Regional Solutions, Global Benefits." This significant international event is under the patronage of King Mohammed VI and is expected to attract 1,500 participants, including 40 ministers and 60 civil aviation directors, representatives from international organizations and financial institutions, along with experts and key stakeholders in the global aviation industry.
The organizers of this global conference aim to create a strategic platform to enhance international cooperation and support the implementation of ICAO standards and policies within the framework of the initiative "Leaving No Country Behind."
As reported by hespress.com.
