Royal Air Maroc announced a temporary suspension of several international flights late Saturday into Sunday due to soaring jet fuel prices, particularly kerosene, which have been exacerbated by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a decline in demand for certain airline routes. The airline linked this decision to an exceptional rise in operational costs that has significantly affected the global aviation sector, prompting numerous airlines to reassess their flight programs and temporarily adjust their capacity in order to avoid further losses.
In this context, Royal Air Maroc revealed the temporary suspension of flights on the following routes: Casablanca – Bangui, Casablanca – Brazzaville, Casablanca – Kinshasa, Casablanca – Douala, Casablanca – Yaoundé, Casablanca – Libreville, Tangier – Malaga, Tangier – Barcelona, Marrakech – Lyon, Marrakech – Bordeaux, Marrakech – Marseille, and Marrakech – Brussels.
A source from Royal Air Maroc, who requested anonymity as they are not authorized to speak to the press, indicated that the tripling of international kerosene prices compared to pre-U.S.-Israeli war levels against Iran has compelled the airline’s management to reconsider the scheduling of several routes with decreased demand. The source explained that the surge in production costs, largely due to the impacts of war, has halted several routes that have been incurring significant losses for the company. Additionally, kerosene typically accounts for a substantial portion of operational expenses for airlines, usually ranging between 15% and 30% of total costs, and in some instances, this expense can exceed the budget allocated for human resources within companies.
While rising jet fuel prices have led some airlines to increase ticket prices, Royal Air Maroc has not yet resorted to raising its fares or revising its pricing policies in line with international market developments. Furthermore, the airline confirmed that it will take all necessary measures to support passengers affected by this suspension. It stated that it is closely monitoring the evolving international situation and will work towards gradually resuming these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions allow.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
