Royal Air Maroc is set to expand its operations in the United States by seeking approval to launch flights between Casablanca (CMN) and Los Angeles (LAX). The airline has submitted a request to the Department of Transportation (DOT) for a commencement date in June 2026, with plans to start marketing and selling tickets once regulatory approval is granted. Given the airline’s current standing, it is expected that obtaining this permission will not pose significant challenges.
The long-haul journey will cover approximately 5,990 miles, with an estimated flight duration of 11 to 12 hours each way. Royal Air Maroc intends to utilize its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, which includes both the 787-8 and 787-9 models for this service.
Currently, Royal Air Maroc’s U.S. destinations include Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), and Washington (IAD). However, with a limited fleet of just five 787-8s and six 787-9s, it raises questions about which existing routes might face alterations or reductions to accommodate the new Los Angeles destination. There have been discussions regarding expanding the fleet with new aircraft in the future, but it is unlikely that these additions will be ready in time for the June 2026 launch. Consequently, the LAX route may operate less frequently, at least during its initial phase.
The timing of this new route coincides with the 2026 FIFA World Cup being held in the United States, suggesting that the airline is strategically planning its launch to capture an influx of travelers during this significant global event.
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Additionally, this new service would enable Los Angeles International Airport to rejoin an exclusive group of airports known for offering nonstop passenger flights to all six continents, a rare achievement in the aviation sector. If successful, LAX will once again connect travelers to Africa, a route that has seen limited direct service in recent years. Notably, EgyptAir is also slated to introduce flights to LAX next year, marking a significant expansion of air travel options to the continent.
Royal Air Maroc’s operational efficiency, attributed to its relatively low-cost structure—partly due to lower labor costs in Morocco—will likely play a pivotal role in the success of this new route to Los Angeles. While the direct market for travel between Los Angeles and Morocco may not be vast, the potential for connections to various one-stop destinations in Africa through Casablanca may help make this route viable.
In summary, Royal Air Maroc has taken a significant step towards launching regularly scheduled flights between Casablanca and Los Angeles, pending regulatory approval. The airline’s strategy appears geared towards capitalizing on upcoming international events, while the challenge will lie in managing its existing fleet to accommodate this new service.
