Royal Air Maroc sparks debate with new direct flight from Toronto to Casablanca

On December 8, 2024, Royal Air Maroc inaugurated a new international direct flight route connecting Toronto, Canada, to Casablanca, Morocco. The launch corresponds with a growing demand from the Moroccan diaspora and the African community residing in Canada. The inaugural flight departed Toronto Pearson International Airport with over 280 passengers aboard, while the flight returning to Toronto from Casablanca carried 204 passengers. This effort to connect the two cities not only enhances travel options for passengers but also aims to boost economic cooperation between Morocco and Canada. The newly established flight schedule operates three times a week, specifically on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, utilizing Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Flights from Casablanca are scheduled to leave at 16:45 and arrive in Toronto at 19:25 local time. The inbound flights depart from Toronto at 21:30, arriving in Casablanca the following day at 10:50 local time. This addition to the travel network is part of Royal Air Maroc's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Americas, building on its existing direct services to New York, Washington, Miami, and Sao Paulo. The launch of the Toronto-Casablanca connection follows the historical Casablanca-Montréal route that has been operational since 1975, and reflects the ongoing efforts by Royal Air Maroc to meet the needs of international travelers and the growing Moroccan community in Canada. The new route aligns with the commitments made under a Development Plan established between Royal Air Maroc and the Government of Morocco in July 2023, which focused on enhancing tourism in Morocco as well as fostering closer economic ties with Canada. Royal Air Maroc's operations are expected to not only facilitate travel but also promote cultural exchange and tourism, helping to support Morocco’s economy post-pandemic. As travel restrictions ease and international travel increases, the airline anticipates a surge in interest for this direct route, which promises to serve both leisure and business travelers effectively. The optimistic outlook for the airline's growth in transatlantic travel highlights the importance of improving global connectivity between these two regions.