Historic inaugural flight links Morocco to the US West Coast
Casablanca — In a groundbreaking move for African aviation, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has launched the continent’s first-ever direct flight connecting Casablanca to Los Angeles. The inaugural journey took off from Mohammed V International Airport at 04:00 AM, covering the 12-hour nonstop route to California.
The timing of this launch is no coincidence. The new service coincides with the 250th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and the United States, as well as the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Atlas Lions will compete on the global stage.
A strategic boost for Casablanca’s air hub
Hamid Addou, CEO of Royal Air Maroc, emphasized the significance of this milestone: « This direct connection between Morocco and the US West Coast reinforces our position as a gateway between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. It also strengthens economic and cultural ties while meeting growing demand from travelers, the diaspora, and football enthusiasts headed to the 2026 World Cup.»
The new route will operate three times weekly using state-of-the-art wide-body aircraft. Departures from Casablanca are scheduled for Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 04:00 AM, arriving in Los Angeles at 08:20 AM local time. Return flights from California depart at 10:20 AM, landing in Casablanca the following day at 05:25 AM.
Expanding North American reach
This direct service complements Royal Air Maroc’s existing routes to major North American cities, including New York, Washington, Miami, Montreal, and Toronto. The initiative is part of a broader development plan agreed upon with the Moroccan government in July 2023, aimed at solidifying Casablanca as a premier aviation hub.
The launch underscores Morocco’s growing role in global air travel, offering passengers seamless connectivity while boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two continents.