Royal Air Maroc has announced a temporary suspension of several international flights due to the soaring prices of aviation fuel, specifically kerosene, which have been attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, along with a decline in demand for certain routes. The airline stated that this decision is a response to the extraordinary increase in operational costs that have significantly impacted the global aviation sector, forcing many airlines to reassess their flight programs and temporarily adjust their capacity to avoid further losses.
As part of this announcement, Royal Air Maroc has temporarily suspended flights on several routes, including Casablanca to Bangui, Casablanca to Brazzaville, Casablanca to Kinshasa, Casablanca to Douala, Casablanca to Yaoundé, Casablanca to Libreville, Tangier to Malaga, Tangier to Barcelona, Marrakech to Lyon, Marrakech to Bordeaux, Marrakech to Marseille, and Marrakech to Brussels.
A source from Royal Air Maroc, who requested anonymity as they are not authorized to speak to the press, indicated that the tripling of kerosene prices in the international market compared to pre-war levels has prompted the company to reevaluate its scheduling for routes experiencing decreased demand. The rising production costs, driven by the war's repercussions, have led to the suspension of several routes that were incurring significant losses for the company. The source noted that kerosene typically accounts for 15% to 30% of airlines' total operating expenses, sometimes exceeding the budget allocated for human resources within the companies.
While the surge in aviation fuel prices has led some airlines to increase ticket prices, Royal Air Maroc has so far refrained from adjusting its fares or revising its pricing policy in accordance with international market developments. Furthermore, the airline has assured that it will take all necessary measures to support affected passengers during this suspension. It has expressed a commitment to closely monitor the evolving international situation and will gradually resume these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions permit.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
