Rabat – Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and China Southern Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve air travel between China and Africa. The agreement aims to meet the growing demand for travel between the two regions.
According to a joint statement from both airlines, the MoU will expand cooperation in air transport and establish a codeshare partnership. This will allow passengers to access more destinations, with China Southern Airlines offering connections to Chinese and Asian cities, while Royal Air Maroc provides routes across Africa.
The two airlines will also explore ways to improve passenger and cargo services. Their goal is to create a smoother and more efficient travel experience for customers, added the statement.
Kukuanji, Deputy Executive Director of China Southern Airlines, said the agreement aligns with the Belt and Road Initiative to connect China with the world. He added that this represents a new beginning for a promising cooperation between China Southern Airlines and Royal Air Maroc.
“We are honored to work with Royal Air Maroc to fully utilize the potential of both airlines. This partnership will help us offer our customers seamless and exceptional travel experiences,” he added.
Meanwhile, RAM CEO Hamid Addou said that the agreement with China Southern Airlines is a “key step in strengthening air connectivity between Africa and China.” It will allow customers more travel options and contribute to boosting tourism, trade, and economic ties between both countries, he stated.
“By combining our strengths, we are committed to providing travel experiences that bring Africa and China closer together,” Addou stated, adding that this will also help attract more Chinese tourists to Morocco.
RAM resumed direct flights between Morocco and China on January 20 after the route was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline currently operates three weekly flights between Casablanca and Beijing.
The route, which is crucial for transporting goods between China and Africa, provides a direct connection to Brazil. The cargo flights are set to carry Chinese goods, such as electronics, furniture, and clothing, to Morocco. Many of these will then be forwarded directly to Brazil.
