Royal Air Maroc fleet, service, and pilot recruitment

Royal Air Maroc is executing a multi-faceted expansion strategy involving fleet growth, technological upgrades, and increased international cargo capacity.

The airline recently added its 18th Boeing 737 MAX-8 to its fleet, bringing its total aircraft count to 69. This move supports a long-term development plan to reach 200 aircraft by 2037, aiming to strengthen Morocco’s position as a global aviation hub. This growth strategy aligns with a program signed in July 2023 to enhance aerial connectivity between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

In addition to fleet expansion, the carrier plans to become the first African commercial airline to implement Starlink satellite connectivity. Following negotiations, the airline aims to equip its entire fleet with SpaceX’s technology by 2027, accelerating its previous 2028 target. The rollout will begin with a testing phase using Earth Station in Motion systems to provide broadband services.

Simultaneously, Royal Air Maroc Cargo has expanded its reach by establishing three weekly Boeing 787 Dreamliner flights between Casablanca and Los Angeles. This provides a direct link between the African continent and the U.S. West Coast, facilitating trade between North America, Africa, and Asia by linking Los Angeles to Beijing via the Casablanca hub.

To support this expansion, the airline has launched an international recruitment campaign to address a shortage of qualified pilots. The carrier is seeking experienced captains and co-pilots certified on Boeing 737 NG/MAX, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and Embraer E170/E190 aircraft. This international search has raised concerns among Moroccan-trained pilots regarding limited domestic pathways to meet the high experience requirements for these roles.