Moroccan airports have reached new heights, welcoming an impressive 24,274,324 passengers by the end of September 2024—a 19.66% increase over the same period last year, according to figures from the National Airports Office (ONDA). This rapid growth underscores Morocco’s rebound in air travel, with significant increases across both domestic and international routes.
Highlights from key airports
This upward trend spanned nearly all major Moroccan airports, with standout growth recorded at several key locations:
- Rabat-Salé Airport saw an incredible jump of 42.77%, reflecting increased tourism and business travel.
- Agadir Airport reported a 36.5% increase, attracting more visitors to Morocco’s premier beach destination.
- Dakhla Airport grew by 35.94%, spurred by its appeal as an adventure and eco-tourism hotspot.
- Marrakech Airport welcomed 33.88% more passengers, reflecting the city’s rising popularity as a cultural and historical center.
- Tétouan and Tangier Airports also experienced strong gains, with growth rates of 31.09% and 21.91%, respectively.
Domestic and international traffic on the rise
Domestic travel in Morocco has surged, with 2,552,687 passengers, marking a 28.82% increase compared to last year. This growth in domestic flights highlights the country’s expanding internal connectivity, allowing more Moroccans and tourists to explore diverse regions easily.
International travel, however, remains the primary driver of this growth. International traffic surged by 18.67% with 21,721,637 passengers. European routes led the charge, with traffic up by 19.86%, underscoring Morocco’s popularity as a destination for European tourists. Traffic from Africa increased by 17.68%, and the Middle and Far East markets contributed a steady rise of 11.99%.
Increased flight movements and cargo
The number of aircraft movements has also surged to 179,863 by September 2024, up by 15.44% year-over-year, showing not only increased tourism but also a stronger network of connections with international carriers. This upturn highlights Morocco’s strategic role as a hub bridging Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Air cargo records 21.5% increase
Alongside passenger growth, air cargo volumes have risen significantly, with more than 67,833 tonnes transported by September’s end—a 21.5% increase from the previous year. This rise reflects Morocco’s growing role in regional and global trade, with airports becoming increasingly important for logistics, particularly in high-value sectors such as electronics, textiles, and perishable goods.
Implications for Morocco’s tourism and economy
This sustained growth in air traffic is a testament to Morocco’s appeal as a global destination, strengthened by a diverse offering of cultural experiences, natural landscapes, and business opportunities. Moreover, these robust air traffic figures support the country’s long-term economic goals, aligning with Morocco’s vision to bolster tourism as a key economic pillar by drawing even more international travelers.
The impressive passenger and cargo growth at Moroccan airports signals not only a successful year but also hints at an increasingly connected future, setting the stage for further expansion in both tourism and trade for Morocco.
