Morocco’s airports hit a new milestone in 2024, recording 24,274,324 passengers by the end of September — a 19.66% rise over the same period last year, according to data released by the Office National des Aéroports (ONDA).
Several major airports led the growth. Rabat-Salé saw a striking 42.77% increase in passenger numbers, with Agadir close behind at 36.5%.
The tourist hotspot of Marrakech posted a 33.88% rise, while Dakhla, Tétouan, and Tangier saw increases of 35.94%, 31.09%, and 21.91%, respectively. ONDA attributed the strong performance to a mix of increased tourism, expanding flight options, and growing regional air links.
Domestic traffic alone surged by 28.82%, reaching over 2.5 million passengers. International flights, which represent the bulk of Morocco’s air traffic, rose 18.67% year-on-year, reaching 21,721,637 passengers.
Growth in international arrivals was primarily driven by European travelers, with traffic from Europe increasing by 19.86%, Africa by 17.68%, and the Middle East by 11.99%.
ONDA reported a similar upswing in air freight, which grew by 21.5%, handling over 67,833 tonnes by September. Aircraft movements also saw an increase, with 179,863 flights recorded — a 15.44% rise from the same period last year.
This growth builds on a strong 2023, where Moroccan airports handled 27,091,249 passengers, up by 32% from the previous year.
That 2023 record-breaking performance was largely attributed to a 32% rise in international traffic, especially from Europe, North America, and neighboring African countries.- Morocco world news
