Royal Air Maroc is currently evaluating bids from Airbus SE, Boeing Co., and Embraer to place a significant order for nearly 200 jets by September. Approximately two-thirds of the 188 aircraft sought will be narrowbody jets, while the remainder will be long-haul widebodies with a capacity of no more than 350 seats, according to CEO Abdelhamid Addou in a recent interview in Dubai. The carrier also plans to acquire 30 regional jets as part of the larger narrowbody purchase.
The airline has already committed to 12 aircraft and is now looking to further expand its fleet. Addou stated, “We are studying offers that we received from planemakers last month, and will see next ‘what will be the schedules of deliveries and what conditions we can get.’” Despite the upcoming order, Addou noted that not all aircraft will be delivered in time to meet the rising demand, necessitating the use of leased planes to fill the interim gap.
Royal Air Maroc currently operates a diverse fleet of regional, short-haul, and long-distance aircraft, including Embraer 190s, Boeing 737-800s, and the larger 787 Dreamliner. Notably, the airline’s current fleet does not include any Airbus SE jets, according to its website.
This expansion plan marks a significant step for Morocco’s national carrier as it aims to modernize and increase its capacity to meet growing passenger demand. The careful consideration of delivery schedules and conditions underscores the airline’s strategic approach to fleet management and growth.