Royal Air Maroc Temporarily Suspends European Flights
In response to the soaring prices of jet fuel, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has announced the suspension of several flights to Europe during the peak summer season. This decision affects numerous routes that are typically in high demand among both international tourists and Moroccan expatriates. The airline's strategy aims to mitigate the financial strain caused by skyrocketing operational costs, allowing for a more sustainable approach to air travel amidst volatile fuel prices.
As part of this operational adjustment, RAM has already halted multiple international connections to the Middle East and Africa, and now plans to eliminate over a dozen additional routes from Morocco to various European destinations. According to reports from AeroRoutes, a specialized platform dedicated to aviation news, the airline will cease bookings on most flights connecting Marrakech to Europe from July to September 2026. This will significantly impact travel plans during the vital summer months.
Marrakech and Other Key Cities Affected
The impact of these suspensions is particularly pronounced in Marrakech, where RAM intends to reduce its services substantially. Specifically, the airline will cut two weekly flights to major French and Belgian cities, including Bordeaux, Brussels, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, and Toulouse, from early August until September 13, 2026. This reduction in capacity is a direct response to the increased operational costs associated with jet fuel, which has surged due to ongoing conflicts in the region.
Additionally, flights from Casablanca will also face significant changes, with RAM decreasing service to several destinations. Notable changes include:
- Catania: Reduced from three to two flights weekly from June 24 to September 9, 2026.
- Montpellier: Reduced from three to two flights weekly from June 24 to October 24, 2026.
- Valencia: Reduced from five to four flights weekly starting June 16, 2026.
- Venice Marco Polo: Reduced from four to three flights weekly starting June 22, 2026.
- Zurich: Reduced from three to two flights weekly starting July 15, 2026.
Furthermore, from the airport in Tanger, RAM plans to suspend two weekly flights each to Barcelona and Malaga, further illustrating the airline's need to recalibrate its European service amidst rising fuel costs. However, RAM has assured travelers that these routes will be reinstated when economic conditions improve.
As reported by visa-algerie.com.
