Royal Air Maroc Expands Direct Flight Options to the United States
In a significant development for air travel in Africa, Royal Air Maroc, the largest airline in Morocco, has initiated nonstop flights linking Casablanca with Los Angeles. This groundbreaking service makes Royal Air Maroc the second African airline, following EgyptAir, to establish a direct air route to the bustling West Coast of the United States. The inaugural flight took off from Mohammed V International Airport on June 7, 2026, embarking on a journey that lasts approximately 12 hours, thereby enhancing travel accessibility for passengers across the continent.
This new nonstop route not only offers a convenient travel option for African passengers but also eliminates the need for layovers in Europe, the Middle East, or the East Coast of the United States. By operating three flights per week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, Royal Air Maroc is poised to cater to the growing demand for direct connections between North Africa and the United States, particularly in light of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Boosting Travel Ahead of Major Sporting Events
The introduction of this direct service is strategically timed, as Los Angeles is set to host several key matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which commences on June 11, 2026. This event is anticipated to attract numerous tourists, football fans, and members of the African diaspora, all eager to witness the world's premier football tournament. Royal Air Maroc expects the new route to significantly contribute to the influx of visitors, thus reinforcing its position as a major air hub in Africa and extending its long-haul network. With existing flights to prominent North American destinations such as New York, Washington, Miami, Montreal, and Toronto, this route further solidifies the airline's commitment to enhancing travel options for African travelers.
Moreover, this service opens up new possibilities for connecting travelers from West and Central Africa via Casablanca, strengthening the airport's role as a regional transit hub. As Morocco gears up to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, the success of this new route will be critical in assessing the viability and sustainability of such direct connections in the longer term.
As reported by africa.businessinsider.com.
