Air France Implements Travel Restrictions for Algerian Citizens
As of September 16, 2023, Air France has announced that it will no longer allow Algerian travelers without valid Moroccan residence permits to board flights to Morocco. This development was confirmed by the Moroccan news outlet Media 24, which cited information from Air France's call center on September 19, 2023. The airline stated that it received instructions from Moroccan authorities regarding this policy change, although specific details were not provided.
In light of this situation, a high-level Moroccan source revealed that "there is nothing official in this matter," indicating a possible lack of formal communication surrounding the new restrictions. The news has sparked significant backlash in Algerian media, with publications like El Moudjahid accusing Air France of discriminatory practices against Algerian travelers who are transiting through France to reach Morocco.
Accusations of Discrimination Against Air France
The airline has reportedly instructed its staff in both Algiers and Oran to ensure that Algerian passengers heading to Morocco possess valid residence permits. The Swissport ground assistance teams responsible for Air France flights departing from these cities have been directed to systematically verify the residency documents of passengers before boarding. Due to the ongoing closure of air borders between Algeria and Morocco and the absence of direct flights, many Algerian travelers have been forced to transit through other countries, including European nations and Tunisia, to reach their destination.
In an internal communication sent to Swissport ground teams in Algiers and Oran, the Air France station manager emphasized the need for a special flagging system—referred to as "ALTEA"—for Algerian travelers bound for Morocco. This means that if a traveler possesses a valid Moroccan residence card, they will be allowed to board as usual; conversely, those without proper documentation will be denied boarding and informed that these measures are mandated by Moroccan border authorities.
As reported by visa-algerie.com.
