A pivotal moment in aviation history unfolded this Sunday as Morocco’s national carrier, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), inaugurated its new direct air service connecting Casablanca to Los Angeles. This groundbreaking route establishes the first-ever direct flight link between the African continent and the United States’ Pacific coast.
The inaugural journey departed from Mohammed V Airport at 04:00 local time, embarking on a non-stop 12-hour flight to California.
This significant launch coincides with a dual celebration: the two-and-a-half-century mark of enduring friendship between Morocco and the United States, and the commencement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Morocco’s national team, the Atlas Lions, are set to compete.
“The introduction of this route represents a monumental achievement for Royal Air Maroc and greatly enhances air connectivity for the entire African continent,” stated Hamid Addou, Chairman and CEO of RAM. “By bridging Morocco with the American West Coast, we are reinforcing our strategic position and unwavering commitment to elevating Morocco’s presence on the global stage.”
+ Three weekly flights to bolster Casablanca’s hub status +
The new Casablanca-Los Angeles service will operate three times a week, utilizing state-of-the-art wide-body aircraft. Flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Departures from Casablanca are set for 04:00, arriving in Los Angeles at 08:20 local time. Return flights will leave California at 10:20, touching down in Casablanca the following day at 05:25.
This expansion is a key component of the national airline’s comprehensive development strategy, which was formally agreed upon with the government in July 2023. The initiative aims to solidify Casablanca’s standing as a pivotal aviation hub, facilitating travel between Africa, Europe, and the Americas, while simultaneously catering to the robust demand from the Moroccan diaspora, international tourists, business travelers, and enthusiastic football supporters.
With this latest inauguration, Royal Air Maroc significantly strengthens its footprint in North America, complementing its well-established direct routes to New York, Washington, Miami, Montreal, and Toronto.