In a significant move, Royal Air Maroc announced a temporary suspension of several international flights during the weekend due to soaring jet fuel prices, specifically kerosene. This rise in fuel costs is attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, coupled with a decrease in demand for certain flight routes. The airline's decision underscores the broader challenges faced by the global aviation sector, which is grappling with exceptional operational costs that have led numerous airlines to reevaluate their flight schedules and adjust their capacities to mitigate further losses.
According to a statement from Royal Air Maroc, the following flight routes are affected by this temporary suspension: 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. The airline's management linked this decision directly to the unprecedented tripling of kerosene prices in the international market compared to pre-conflict levels, prompting a reassessment of routes experiencing decreased demand.
A source within Royal Air Maroc, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the information, explained that the rising production costs stemming from the ongoing war have necessitated the cancellation of several routes that were incurring substantial losses for the company. This source emphasized that kerosene constitutes a critical component of airline operational expenses, typically ranging from 15% to 30% of total costs, occasionally surpassing the budget allocated for human resources within these companies.
While the surge in jet fuel prices has compelled some airlines to increase ticket prices, Royal Air Maroc has, thus far, refrained from adjusting its pricing strategy in line with international market fluctuations. Furthermore, the airline has assured that it will implement all necessary measures to support travelers affected by this temporary flight suspension. It is monitoring the international situation closely and intends to gradually resume these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions permit.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
