Airbus strengthens partnership with Rabat as Morocco’s aviation sector expands

European aerospace giant Airbus is seeking to deepen its partnership with Morocco’s rapidly growing aviation sector, citing significant opportunities in the North African kingdom, company executives announced at the Paris Air Show, held from June 16-22 in the French capital’s suburbs.

Wouter Van Wersch, Airbus executive vice president for international affairs, described Morocco as “a very close partner” following meetings with Moroccan officials at the industry’s premier event. The discussions, which Van Wersch characterized as “excellent,” focused on expanding the manufacturer’s presence in Morocco.

Airbus currently employs nearly 2,000 people in Morocco following its recent acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems’ Casablanca facility, which produces aircraft fuselages, particularly for the A220 model. The company and Moroccan officials are working toward the ambitious goal of establishing final aircraft assembly operations in the kingdom.

The partnership discussions come at a strategic time for Morocco, which is preparing to host major international events including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal. These events are driving significant infrastructure development and aviation expansion plans.

Royal Air Maroc, the national carrier, plans to dramatically expand its fleet from 50 to 200 aircraft by 2037, creating what Junior Investment Minister Karim Zidane described as a “large market” attracting global aviation leaders.

Morocco’s aviation sector has evolved significantly over two decades, attracting global manufacturers including Boeing, Safran, Hexcel, and Pratt & Whitney. The kingdom offers skilled workforce, quality infrastructure, and comprehensive industrial strategy that positions it as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain.

Transport Minister Abdessamad Kayouh emphasized the importance of new technologies to support Casablanca’s development as a major international and African aviation hub.

According to recent reports by Reuters and Bloomberg, Moroccan flag carrier RAM is set to order at least 20 A220 Airbus jets, as part of a larger order dominated by Boeing.