Rabat – The debate over control of Saharan airspace has resurfaced in Spain, stirring political and diplomatic discussions. Spanish officials, speaking anonymously, confirmed no updates on the matter, responding to questions from an Iberian media outlet.
Converging reports suggest Spain is considering delegating air navigation services (ATS) for Saharan airspace to Morocco.
While not a full transfer of sovereignty, the proposal would grant Morocco operational responsibilities, a move seen as strengthening Rabat’s territorial claims and cementing strategic ties between the two nations.
According to aviation sources cited in Spanish media, the Ministry of Transport is studying the feasibility of such a delegation.
Senator Aniceto Javier Armas González, representing El Hierro and aligned with the Junts per Catalunya group, raised the issue formally in the Spanish Senate.
This development aligns with a broader roadmap established during Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s visit to Morocco in April 2022.
The joint declaration included provisions to discuss airspace management. However, the process stalled after Spain’s early elections and government transition disrupted the timeline.
Read also: Western Sahara: Spain Confirms Ongoing Talks with Morocco on Airspace Management
For decades, Spain has managed Saharan airspace from the Canary Islands under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
ENAIRE, a Spanish state-owned company, oversees operations, leveraging its historical role as the former administrative power.
The delegation of ATS involves air traffic control, flight information services, and emergency management—tasks requiring advanced technology and adherence to ICAO standards.
Analysts note that Morocco, equipped with modernized air infrastructure and emerging technological capabilities, is well-positioned to assume these responsibilities.
But ENAIRE distanced itself from the controversy, stating it is neither engaged in negotiations nor responsible for foreign policy.
Public concern heightened following comments by Senator Armas, who alleged that Spain was “quietly ceding Saharan airspace to Morocco.”
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed ongoing discussions but reframed the narrative, emphasizing cooperation.
“Point 7 of the joint declaration concerns the improvement of airspace management, and this is what we are pursuing,” Albares stated.
