Morocco is launching a major new chapter in the modernization of its airport infrastructure, backed by a €270 million loan from the African Development Bank. This funding will support an ambitious program led by the National Airports Office (ONDA), aimed at expanding capacity and boosting the competitiveness of the country’s air transport network by 2030.
The initiative, co-financed by the Moroccan government, represents a total investment of over 9.1 billion dirhams—or approximately €863 million. The primary goal is to keep pace with rapidly growing passenger and cargo traffic, while also preparing for key future events, most notably the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.
At the heart of the plan is a broad push to raise operational standards across several major airports, including those in Marrakech, Agadir, Fes, and Tangier. The project includes terminal expansions, upgrades to aircraft parking areas and taxiways, runway resurfacing, new lighting systems, and improved night-time navigation tools.
One of the most high-profile elements is a brand-new control tower in Marrakech, which will feature state-of-the-art systems for radionavigation, radiocommunication, and weather monitoring. Technical and architectural studies will guide the design and construction phases to ensure compliance with international benchmarks.
The modernization doesn’t stop with infrastructure. A significant portion of the budget is allocated to acquiring cutting-edge equipment designed to enhance security and passenger flow. This includes baggage scanners, body scanners, security gates, escalators, elevators, moving walkways, and automated systems for sorting, detecting, and handling luggage from check-in to boarding.
Project oversight will be thorough and precise. It involves a full project management strategy, from team coordination to comprehensive technical and financial audits, ensuring that the implementation aligns with global best practices.
The African Development Bank’s contribution covers nearly a third of the total cost, with the remaining €593 million to be financed directly by Morocco through ONDA. This loan fits within the Bank’s broader mission to help member countries build infrastructure that is sustainable, connected, and inclusive.
Morocco’s current airport network includes 25 airports, 19 of which are international. Together, they can handle up to 40 million passengers per year. In 2024 alone, more than 32 million travelers passed through Moroccan airports—a figure that cements the country’s role as a key aviation hub linking Africa with Europe and the Middle East.
Beyond managing the physical airport infrastructure, ONDA is also responsible for overseeing air traffic control across Moroccan airspace. This critical function is carried out in accordance with ICAO standards, ensuring both safety and efficiency in the skies.
