Royal Air Maroc announced a temporary suspension of several international flights late Saturday to Sunday, attributing the decision to soaring jet fuel prices, specifically kerosene, which have been exacerbated by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a decrease in demand for certain airline routes.
In an official statement, the airline connected its decision to the unprecedented rise in operational costs that has significantly impacted the global aviation sector. This situation has compelled various airlines to reassess their flight programs and temporarily adjust their capacities to mitigate further losses.
As part of this suspension, Royal Air Maroc has temporarily halted the following routes: Casablanca - Bangui, Casablanca - Brazzaville, Casablanca - Kinshasa, Casablanca - Douala, Casablanca - Yaoundé, Casablanca - Libreville, Tangier - Malaga, Tangier - Barcelona, Marrakech - Lyon, Marrakech - Bordeaux, Marrakech - Marseille, and Marrakech - Brussels.
According to a source from Royal Air Maroc, who requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the media, the surge in kerosene prices, which have tripled in the international market compared to pre-war levels during the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, has prompted the company to reconsider its scheduling for several routes experiencing reduced demand.
The source elaborated in a conversation with Al-Araby that the increase in production costs, stemming from the war's aftermath, has halted several routes that were incurring significant losses for the airline. They noted that kerosene typically constitutes a crucial part of operational expenses for airlines, usually ranging from 15% to 30% of total expenditures. In some cases, this cost has even surpassed the budget allocated for human resources within companies.
While the rise in jet fuel prices has led many airlines to increase ticket prices, Royal Air Maroc has, thus far, refrained from adjusting its ticket prices or revising its pricing strategy in line with international market developments.
Furthermore, Royal Air Maroc has confirmed that it will implement all necessary measures to assist passengers affected by this suspension. The airline stated it is closely monitoring international developments and will work towards gradually reinstating these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions permit.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
