Rabat - Morocco is emerging as Africa’s “gateway” to an “aviation renaissance,” American, the US magazine Forbes has assessed.
“From the edge of the Mediterranean, Morocco is forging an aviation path marked by impressive growth,” Forbes wrote in its latest report on Africa’s aviation industry.
“As Airbus released their forecast of a 3.6% annual growth in demand for passenger traffic, the nation's strategic location, coupled with an investment-friendly climate, makes it an attractive proposition for international aviation businesses, including aircraft manufacturing,” the report explained.
It added that Morocco offers an “open sky policy” to entrepreneurs and businesses to boost foreign investment and partnerships, paving the way for “robust growth in its aviation sector.”
Noting the overall progress of Africa’s aviation sector, Forbes’s report maintains that “Africa’s rise in the global aviation scene is spearheaded by Morocco, Nigeria and South Africa.”
The report comes as Morocco continues to heavily invest in its aerospace infrastructure, workforce training, and global partnerships to establish itself as a central hub for aviation activities.
As well as the growing investments in the industry, other factors of the Moroccan aviation sector’s positive momentum include Morocco’s strategic geographical location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Read also: Forbes: Morocco ‘Well-Positioned’ to Become Leader in Aerospace Manufacturing
Indeed, this location has enabled the North African country to become a pivotal center for both regional and international aviation.
Meanwhile, the Moroccan government has been consistently supportive of the industry, implementing initiatives and incentives to attract foreign investors.
The creation of aerospace industry clusters, like the Midparc Free Zone near Casablanca, further strengthened the nation’s aviation infrastructure.
To meet the demands of the aerospace sector, Morocco has prioritized the development of a highly skilled workforce. Specialized institutions like the Moroccan Aerospace Institute were launched to produce a pool of qualified professionals, ensuring the industry’s sustainability.
Morocco has also fostered strong partnerships with renowned aerospace companies such as Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, and Safran. The collaborations have not only facilitated technology transfer but have also enhanced the overall competitiveness of Morocco’s aerospace sector.
In parallel with its manufacturing ambitions, Morocco has made significant progress in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The Technopark in Casablanca and Tangier Aerospace City serve as prime examples of Moroccan facilities catering to MRO companies, offering an ideal environment for conducting maintenance services.
In an earlier report this year, Forbes argued that with its commitment to workforce development, technology adoption, and infrastructure enhancement, Morocco is well on its way to becoming a leader in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, and operations.
