Tag: morocco

Mohammed V International Airport, situated in Nouaceur Province and operated by the National Airports Office (ONDA), is the principal international gateway to Casablanca, Morocco. With a notable achievement in 2022, the airport earned its position as Morocco’s busiest and one of Africa’s top 10 busiest airports. The year 2022 witnessed approximately 7.6 million passengers, demonstrating a remarkable recovery to 74% of the pre-pandemic passenger numbers in 2019. Mohammed V International Airport serves as a pivotal hub for prominent airlines like Royal Air Maroc, Royal Air Maroc Express, and Air Arabia Maroc. Named in honor of King Mohammed V, who led Morocco to independence from French and Spanish colonial rule, this airport boasts a rich history and plays a significant role in the country’s aviation landscape.

The airport’s historical legacy can be traced back to its origins during World War II. Originally constructed by the United States in 1943, it was known as Berrechid Airfield and served as an auxiliary airfield for Casablanca’s Anfa Airport. During this time, it played a crucial role in handling diverse military traffic, serving as a stopover for flights en route to various destinations. After the war, it transitioned into a civil airport.

The 1950s witnessed the reopening of the airport, now known as Nouasseur Air Base, and its use as a staging area for B-47 Stratojet bombers during the Cold War. However, with Moroccan independence in 1956 and the ensuing political developments, the U.S. Air Force agreed to withdraw from the airport, completing this process by 1963. In the 2020s, Mohammed V Airport continued to maintain its status as a significant aviation hub, ranking as the fourth busiest airport on the African continent.

Today, Mohammed V International Airport serves as a vital gateway to Morocco, facilitating both domestic and international travel while contributing to the country’s robust aviation sector. Its growth and historical significance make it a key point of entry for travelers to this culturally rich and vibrant nation.

Marrakesh Menara Airport, an international gateway to Marrakesh, the capital city of the Marrakesh-Safi region in Morocco, is a pivotal hub for both domestic and international travel. The airport’s significance lies in its role as a major international facility, receiving flights from several European destinations, along with flights from Casablanca and some nations in the Arab world. Notably, in 2019, Marrakesh Menara Airport served over 6.3 million passengers, reflecting its status as a central point of entry for visitors to this culturally rich city.

During World War II, the airport had a vital role as a hub for cargo and as a transit point for aircraft and personnel, utilized by the United States Army Air Forces Air Transport Command. It served as a strategic stopover en route to Casablanca Airfield or Agadir Airport, facilitating the transport of cargo, aircraft, and personnel.

Marrakesh Menara Airport boasts two passenger terminals within a single expansive building, with a third terminal recently added. These terminals offer a combined space of 42,000 square meters and are designed to accommodate up to 9 million passengers annually. Additionally, the airport includes a separate freight terminal with 340 square meters of covered space. With its well-designed facilities and runway capabilities, Marrakesh Menara Airport is a key transport and travel center for Morocco, providing a comfortable and efficient experience for both domestic and international travelers.

Nador International Airport, also known as Arwi Airport, serves as a vital international gateway to the city of Nador in the Oriental region of Morocco. The airport has an interesting history, having initially been located in the village of Tawima, south of Nador town, and primarily serving Melilla, a Spanish enclave to the north. Following Morocco’s independence, Melilla established its airport within Spanish control, officially opening Melilla Airport in 1969 for travel between the enclave and mainland Spain. Subsequently, Nador International Airport, inaugurated in 1999, has grown to connect Morocco’s main airports with several European destinations, including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain.

While Nador International Airport generally operates flights using smaller aircraft like the Boeing 737, it experiences a surge in activity during the summer season. Many Moroccan nationals residing in Western Europe, especially those originating from the Rif region, use the airport for their travels. The airport is managed by the state company ONDA and serves as a hub for Royal Air Maroc, along with several low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Air Arabia, Tuifly, and Transavia. In the past, the airport accommodated Boeing 747 flights from Amsterdam Schiphol and Brussels during peak times, but the overwhelming demand led to adjustments in the type of aircraft used.

In response to the increasing number of travelers and flights, the airport began terminal extension work in 2016, culminating in the inauguration of a new airport on July 9, 2021. With over 307,000 passengers handled in 2009, Nador International Airport plays a crucial role in facilitating travel to and from the Oriental region of Morocco, providing essential connections for both domestic and international travelers.

Agadir Al Massira Airport, an international gateway to Agadir, a major city in southwest Morocco, plays a pivotal role in serving both domestic and international travelers. Situated 20 kilometers southeast of the city, this airport is a key transport hub for the Souss-Massa region. In 2007, it served 1,502,094 passengers, and its importance has only grown in recent years, with the booming tourism industry leading to the introduction of new flights from airports in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The airport boasts impressive facilities, including a runway (09/27) measuring 3,200 by 45 meters, capable of accommodating aircraft as large as a Boeing 747. It holds an ILS Class II certification and provides various radionavigational aids, including VOR, DME, and NDB. The airport’s parking space for aircraft extends across 170,000 square meters, allowing room for ten Boeing 737s and three Boeing 747s.

The terminal at Agadir Al Massira Airport spans 26,550 square meters, with a projected capacity of serving 3 million passengers annually. Notably, there is a large waiting room that is divided to accommodate both national and international flights, making the passenger experience efficient and convenient. Travelers heading to Casablanca with connecting international flights can go through passport control in Agadir, saving transfer time at Mohammed V Airport. Moreover, Agadir Al Massira Airport is one of the select airports in Morocco where ONDA offers its VIP service, known as Salon Convives de Marque, enhancing the overall airport experience.

Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport is a prominent international airport serving Tangier, the capital city of Morocco’s Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. The airport’s name pays tribute to Ibn Battuta, a Moroccan traveler born in Tangier in the 14th century. Formerly known as Tanger-Boukhalef Airport, it has become a vital transportation hub, handling over 1,070,247 passengers in 2017. This growth reflects Tangier’s rapid modernization and increased importance on the global stage.

In 2008, a new airport terminal was opened to meet the surging demand for flights and accommodate a growing number of passengers. The airport provides ample parking space for aircraft, including four Boeing 737s and one Boeing 747, with dedicated areas for smaller aircraft. The passenger terminal, spanning 12,000 square meters, is designed to handle 1,250,000 travelers annually. Additionally, there is a cargo terminal offering 529 square meters of covered space. While the airport has two runways, only the longer runway (10/28) is currently in use, capable of accommodating aircraft up to the size of a Boeing 747 and Airbus A380-800.

Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport boasts advanced infrastructure, including an Instrument Landing System (ILS) and a range of radionavigational aids like VOR, DME, and NDB. It also features PAPI lighting for runway 10/28 to facilitate approaches from various directions. Notably, the airport is one of six in Morocco where ONDA provides a special VIP service known as Salon Convives de Marque, offering a premium travel experience to its passengers. As Tangier continues to thrive and attract international travelers, Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport plays a significant role in connecting the city with the rest of the world.

Fès Saïs Airport, also known as Saïss Airport, is a crucial transportation hub serving the vibrant city of Fez, the capital of the Fès-Meknès region in Morocco. In a significant milestone for the airport, it achieved over a million passengers in 2017, marking a historic moment in its development and growth. This impressive milestone reflects the increasing importance of Fez as a destination and the airport’s role in connecting travelers to the region.

Situated at an elevation of 579 meters (1,900 feet) above sea level, Fès Saïs Airport offers a well-maintained infrastructure to ensure a smooth travel experience. It boasts a single runway, designated as 09/27, featuring an asphalt surface measuring 3,200 by 45 meters (10,499 feet by 148 feet). The airport’s modern facilities and strategic location make it a vital gateway for both domestic and international travelers, contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the Fez-Meknès region.

As Fès Saïs Airport continues to welcome an increasing number of passengers, it reinforces its position as a key player in the region’s transportation network. Its achievements reflect the growing appeal of Fez as a destination, drawing visitors from around the world to explore its rich history, culture, and heritage. This airport’s commitment to providing excellent services and accessibility is pivotal in facilitating travel to and from the captivating city of Fez.

Rabat Salé Airport, also known as Salé Airport, plays a pivotal role in connecting the city of Salé and the capital city of Morocco, Rabat, to the world. Located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) east-northeast of Rabat, this airport serves as a joint-use facility for both civilian and military purposes. It also hosts the First Air Base of the Royal Moroccan Air Force, showcasing its significance in Morocco’s aviation landscape.

The airport has a rich history dating back to World War II, where it served as a military airfield for both the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces. After the war, it continued to play a crucial role as a stopover and landing field for Air Transport Command aircraft on the Casablanca-Algiers transport route. During the early years of the Cold War, it was utilized by the United States Air Force’s Strategic Air Command. The airport’s historical importance is intertwined with its development into a modern transportation hub.

In 2012, Rabat Salé Airport inaugurated the new Terminal 1 building, marking a significant upgrade. With a capacity of 3.5 million passengers per year, this expansion has more than doubled the capacity of the old terminal. The airport offers essential facilities such as car rental agencies, banks, ATMs, café-bars, duty-free shops, and more to enhance the travel experience. Moreover, ongoing expansion works initiated in 2018 aim to further boost the airport’s capacity, with plans to accommodate up to 4 million passengers. Rabat Salé Airport’s continuous growth reflects its vital role in facilitating air travel to and from the capital region of Morocco.

Oujda Angads Airport, situated approximately 12 kilometers (7 miles) north of the city of Oujda in Morocco, serves as a vital gateway to the Oriental region. Positioned near the Algerian border and about 600 kilometers (373 miles) northeast of Casablanca, this airport plays a crucial role in connecting this part of Morocco to domestic and international destinations.

The airport holds a significant place in history, notably during World War II when it served as a military airfield. It was used by both the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the United States Army Air Forces Twelfth Air Force during the North African campaign. In that period, it was referred to as RAF Oujda and Oujda Airfield, highlighting its role in supporting military operations.

Today, Oujda Angads Airport continues to be a key transportation hub for the region, facilitating travel for both passengers and cargo. Its historical significance combined with its modern-day operations reflects the airport’s continued importance in the Oriental region of Morocco.

Tan Tan Airport, also recognized as Plage Blanche Airport, is an aviation facility located near the city of Tan Tan in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region of Morocco. This airport serves both military and civilian aviation purposes, emphasizing its dual role in supporting various activities.

The airport’s facilities include a runway designated 03/21 with an asphalt surface measuring 2,000 by 30 meters (6,562 feet by 98 feet). It also features essential radio-navigation aids such as NDB (Non-Directional Beacon) and VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range). While the runway is suitable for accommodating light private jets and turbo-prop aircraft, it caters to a range of aviation needs, contributing to transportation and logistics in the region.

Tan Tan Airport’s strategic location makes it a valuable asset, supporting not only local travel but also military operations and other critical aviation requirements. It plays a key role in enhancing connectivity and accessibility in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region of Morocco.

Ouarzazate Airport is a vital aviation hub serving Ouarzazate, a city located in the Drâa-Tafilalet region of Morocco. In 2016, the airport facilitated the travel of 52,791 passengers, highlighting its role in enhancing connectivity to this region.

The airport’s infrastructure includes a generous aircraft parking area, spanning 56,311 square meters (606,127 square feet), capable of accommodating up to three Boeing 747s or seven Boeing 737s. The air terminal covers 3,200 square meters (34,445 square feet) and is equipped to handle the needs of approximately 260,000 passengers per year.

Moreover, Ouarzazate Airport boasts a well-maintained paved runway measuring 3,100 by 45 meters (10,171 feet by 148 feet), designed to receive a variety of modern jetliners, including aircraft as large as the Boeing 747. The airport’s commitment to safety and precision is evident through its implementation of an ILS Cat II landing system and provision of essential radio navigation aids such as DME (Distance Measuring Equipment), ensuring smooth and efficient air travel experiences for all passengers using this facility. Ouarzazate Airport plays a significant role in enhancing transportation and accessibility in the Drâa-Tafilalet region of Morocco, contributing to its growth and development.

Cherif Al Idrissi Airport, located in Al Hoceima, Morocco, serves as a significant transportation hub in the Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region of northern Morocco. This airport is the second-busiest in the region, facilitating the movement of passengers and contributing to the area’s connectivity.

Named after the renowned 12th-century Moroccan geographer and cartographer Al-Idrisi, the airport sits at an elevation of 95 feet (29 meters) above sea level. It boasts one well-maintained runway, designated as 17/35, featuring a robust asphalt surface spanning 2,500 by 45 meters (8,202 feet by 148 feet). This infrastructure ensures smooth and safe operations for the aircraft landing and taking off from Cherif Al Idrissi Airport.

The airport plays a crucial role in enhancing accessibility to the region, facilitating travel for both locals and tourists. Its steady traffic and vital location make it a vital component of the transportation network in northern Morocco. Cherif Al Idrissi Airport is a testament to the region’s commitment to modern infrastructure and connectivity, supporting its growth and development.

Moulay Ali Cherif Airport, located in Errachidia, Morocco, serves as a vital gateway to the Drâa-Tafilalet region. This airport, situated at an elevation of 3,428 feet (1,045 meters) above sea level, is crucial for both domestic and international travel to and from the region.

The airport features one well-maintained runway, designated as 13/31, with a sturdy asphalt surface measuring 3,200 by 45 meters (10,499 feet by 148 feet). This well-equipped infrastructure ensures safe and efficient operations for the aircraft that utilize Moulay Ali Cherif Airport. It serves as a key transportation hub, contributing to the region’s connectivity and accessibility.

Moulay Ali Cherif Airport plays an essential role in supporting the travel needs of locals and visitors, serving as a gateway to the Drâa-Tafilalet region’s unique cultural and natural attractions. Its strategic location and modern facilities make it an important asset for the region’s growth and development.

Essaouira-Mogador Airport is a crucial international gateway to the charming coastal city of Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, in Morocco’s Marrakesh-Safi region. This airport provides essential air connectivity to the region, supporting both domestic and international travel.

The airport is situated at an elevation of 384 feet (117 meters) above sea level and boasts one well-maintained runway designated as 16/34. This runway features a robust asphalt/bitumen surface that measures 2,100 by 45 meters (6,890 feet by 148 feet). These facilities contribute to the smooth and efficient operation of flights in and out of Essaouira, enhancing the city’s accessibility for travelers.

Essaouira-Mogador Airport is a vital asset for the city, ensuring visitors can easily explore its historic charm and coastal beauty. Whether arriving from domestic or international locations, the airport serves as a gateway to Essaouira’s unique cultural and natural attractions. Its strategic location and well-designed facilities support the city’s growth and development as a popular destination in Morocco.