Royal Air Maroc has recently welcomed a new addition to its fleet with the arrival of a 15-year-old Embraer E190 aircraft in Casablanca, marking a significant milestone for the airline. This aircraft, which has a rich history dating back to its first flight in 2011, was previously operated by Kenya Airways and has traveled through various European airports. The acquisition is part of a leasing agreement with the American company Azorra Aviation, aimed at enhancing the airline's operational capabilities.
On October 21, the Embraer E190, registered as CN-RIA, landed in Casablanca after completing a flight from Exeter in the southwest of England. This flight, designated AT8790, signifies the arrival of the first of two aircraft that Royal Air Maroc is leasing from Azorra Aviation. This strategic move is part of the airline's ongoing efforts to expand and modernize its fleet, ensuring that it can meet the growing demands of air travel.
The journey of this particular aircraft began on May 6, 2011, when it embarked on its inaugural flight in Brazil. Originally delivered to Kenya Airways under the registration 5Y-KYQ, it served the African carrier until January 2025, when it was retired from service. Following its retirement, the aircraft was stationed in Nairobi and later in Bydgoszcz, Poland, before making its way to Exeter in May 2026 for maintenance. Its recent flight to Casablanca is documented in the historical records available on Flightradar24.
Strengthening the Fleet with Leased Aircraft
Royal Air Maroc's leasing arrangement with Azorra includes plans for additional aircraft. As of September 30, Azorra had two Embraer E190s designated for Royal Air Maroc, with deliveries expected by 2026. Following the arrival of CN-RIA, a second aircraft, identified as CN-RHW, is also set to join the fleet. This will bring the total number of Embraer E190s operated by Royal Air Maroc to six, representing a 50% increase in this segment of their fleet. Notably, the four existing E190s had changed ownership in 2024 as part of a transaction among lessors.
In addition to the Embraer E190s, Royal Air Maroc is also bolstering its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. With two recent deliveries on September 25 and 30, the total number of Boeing 737 MAX 8s has reached twenty, as reported by NewsAero. These two aircraft are leased from Aviation Capital Group. As it stands, Royal Air Maroc boasts a fleet of 71 aircraft, with ambitious plans to expand to 130 by 2030 and ultimately reach 200 aircraft by 2038.
As reported by bladi.net.
