Rabat – Morocco’s Office National des Aéroports (ONDA) reported a 19% increase in passenger traffic at the country’s airports during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
This translates to over 15.1 million passengers handled, marking a new record for the nation’s aviation sector.
The growth trend appears to be widespread, with several airports experiencing significant increases. Rabat-Sale recorded the highest jump at 40%, followed by Agadir (34%) and Marrakech (29%).
Other hubs including Tetouan, Tangier, and Fes also saw increases in passenger traffic, ranging from 12% to 23%.
While international travel remains dominant, domestic traffic also showed positive signs. Domestic passenger numbers reached over 1.5 million in the first half of 2024, representing a 22% rise year-on-year.
International air traffic, meanwhile, grew by 19% compared to H1 2023, with over 13.5 million passengers. This growth is attributed to a strong performance across various markets, including Europe (20% increase), Africa (16% increase), and the Middle and Far East (15% increase).
Beyond passenger numbers, ONDA reported a 15% increase in aircraft movements during the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year.
This translates to over 111,000 aircraft movements, with Casablanca’s Mohammed V airport handling the most traffic (35%). Marrakech Menara (26%) and Agadir Al Massira (9%) followingclosely behind.
The positive trend extends to air freight as well. ONDA reported a 24% increase in air cargo traffic during the first half of 2024, reaching over 46,209 tonnes. This growth suggests a potential increase in economic activity and trade through Moroccan airports.
While the reasons behind the surge in passenger and cargo traffic are not explicitly stated by ONDA, it could be attributed to several factors.
These include increased tourism activity, relaxed travel restrictions after the pandemic, and the expansion of airline routes to and from Morocco are all potential contributors.
