Royal Air Maroc announced a temporary suspension of several international flights late Saturday to Sunday, attributing this decision to soaring jet fuel prices resulting from escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, coupled with a decline in demand for certain air routes. The airline's statement highlighted that the extraordinary increase in operational costs has significantly impacted the global aviation sector, prompting numerous airlines to reassess their flight schedules and temporarily adjust their capacity to avoid further financial losses.
The airline has specifically announced 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. According to a source from Royal Air Maroc, who requested anonymity due to a lack of authorization to speak to the press, the prices of jet fuel have tripled on the international market compared to their levels before the US-Israeli war on Iran. This drastic increase has compelled the airline's management to reconsider the scheduling of flights and destinations experiencing declining demand.
The source further elaborated in a conversation with "Al-Araby Al-Jadeed" that the rising production costs, exacerbated by the consequences of the ongoing conflict, have led to the suspension of several routes that were incurring significant losses for the airline. It was noted that jet fuel constitutes a critical component of airlines' operational expenses, typically accounting for between 15% and 30% of total costs, and in some cases, these expenses can surpass the budget allocated for human resources within companies.
While the increase in jet fuel prices has prompted many airlines to raise their ticket prices, Royal Air Maroc has, up to this point, refrained from adjusting its ticket pricing strategy in line with international market trends. Additionally, the airline has confirmed that it will take all necessary measures to support affected travelers during this suspension period. They have expressed a keen interest in closely monitoring international developments and are committed to gradually resuming these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions permit.
As reported by alaraby.co.uk.
