Royal Air Maroc Announces Temporary Flight Suspensions
On Saturday, Royal Air Maroc officially declared a temporary suspension of several flights to European and African destinations, attributing this decision to soaring fuel prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. In a statement released through the Moroccan News Agency, the airline noted that it was compelled to "take measures to adapt its international network," which includes the "temporary suspension of flights on a number of routes."
This decision comes in response to the significant rise in kerosene prices, a direct consequence of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, coupled with a slowdown in demand for certain flight routes. The suspended flights include connections from Marrakech to cities such as Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, and Brussels. Additionally, routes from Casablanca to various African airports in Bangui, Brazzaville, Kinshasa, Douala, Yaoundé, and Libreville are affected. Flights connecting Tangier to Barcelona and Malaga are also included in this temporary halt.
The heightened fuel prices are largely attributed to the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which commenced on February 28, and Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a sharp increase in aviation fuel prices. This escalation has raised concerns over airline profits and contributed to rising ticket prices. Royal Air Maroc emphasized its commitment to gradually resume these routes as soon as operational and economic conditions permit.
Furthermore, the airline, which is over 98% state-owned, has ambitious plans for 2023 aimed at expanding its fleet from the current 50 aircraft to 200 by the year 2037. The company also mentioned that it will implement necessary measures to support passengers impacted by the flight suspensions.
As reported by alarabiya.net.
