Airbus Seeks to Expand Partnership with Morocco's Growing Aviation Sector
Rabat — European aircraft manufacturer Airbus wants to strengthen its presence in Morocco, where the aviation sector offers 'plenty of opportunities,' according to the company's executive vice president for international affairs.
Wouter Van Wersch made these comments to reporters after meeting with Moroccan officials at the 55th Paris Air Show, held from June 16-22 in the French capital's suburbs.
'We have a long-standing presence in Morocco. The Kingdom serves as a very close partner to Airbus,' Van Wersch told the press following discussions with the Moroccan delegation at Le Bourget.
The Airbus executive described the talks with Moroccan representatives as 'excellent' and noted both sides share a common desire to deepen the company's presence and collaboration with Morocco. The European manufacturer now employs nearly 2,000 people in the country following its recent acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems' Casablanca facility.
High-level Moroccan delegation visits Airbus stand
The Moroccan delegation at the Airbus stand included several key government ministers: Transport and Logistics Minister Abdessamad Kayouh, Industry and Commerce Minister Ryad Mezzour, Deputy Minister for Investment Karim Zidane, and Ali Seddiki, Director General of Morocco's Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE).
Minister Mezzour focused on the strategic agreements linking Morocco to Airbus, one of the world's leading aircraft manufacturers. 'We work together on future prospects for the Moroccan platform,' he said.
'Airbus just bought the Spirit factory that makes aircraft fuselages, particularly for the A220, in Nouaceur,' Mezzour explained, adding that both parties work toward achieving the goal of establishing 'final aircraft assembly in Morocco.'
Morocco prepares for major aviation expansion
Deputy Minister Zidane pointed out that the meeting with Airbus executives comes at the right time as Morocco prepares to host major international events, particularly the 2025 AFCON and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted with Spain and Portugal.
He said that Royal Air Maroc (RAM), Morocco's national carrier, plans to expand its fleet from 50 to 200 aircraft by 2037. For this 'large market' that already attracts interest from global aviation leaders, the Moroccan government insists on 'win-win partnerships.'
'Airbus understands this challenge. We want the group to invest part of its aviation investments in Morocco for technology transfer and know-how sharing,' Zidane said. He welcomed Airbus's willingness to invest more in Morocco.
Transport Minister Kayouh also described the meeting as 'very productive,' especially regarding RAM's fleet expansion plans.
He stressed the importance of new technologies to 'meet needs, particularly with Casablanca's new hub, which will become a true international and African hub.'
Morocco's aviation industry strengths
AMDIE Director General Seddiki spoke of Morocco's advantages, noting that the country can 'secure the European group and support its strong production increase' thanks to its skilled workforce, quality human capital, world-class infrastructure, and comprehensive industrial strategy.
At the Paris Air Show, AMDIE partnered with the Moroccan Aerospace Industries Group (GIMAS) to set up a Morocco pavilion hosting six Moroccan companies. The pavilion features the expertise and dynamism of the national aerospace industry.
Through its participation in this major aviation event, Morocco aims to promote the aerospace sector's strengths and opportunities while enhancing the country's attractiveness to industry professionals.
Over the past 20 years, Morocco has successfully built a diversified and competitive aerospace industry. The sector features global leaders including Boeing, Airbus, Safran, Hexcel, Eaton, Alcoa, Le Piston Français, Daher, Collins Aerospace, and Pratt & Whitney. Tags: AirbusMoroccan Aerospace IndustryRAM
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