Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the national carrier, made history this Sunday by launching a direct air route connecting Casablanca to Los Angeles. This groundbreaking new path establishes the first-ever direct air link between the African continent and the Pacific coast of the United States.
The inaugural flight departed from Mohammed V Airport at 04:00, embarking on a direct 12-hour journey to the Californian metropolis.
This significant launch coincides with a dual celebration: two and a half centuries of enduring friendship between Morocco and the United States, and the commencement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Atlas Lions are set to compete.
Hamid Addou, President and CEO of RAM, highlighted the importance of this new route, stating, “The inauguration of this line represents a historic milestone for Royal Air Maroc and for air connectivity across the African continent.” He added, “By bringing Morocco closer to the American West Coast, we reaffirm our pivotal role and our unwavering commitment to elevating Morocco’s presence on the global stage.”
Three weekly frequencies to boost Casablanca’s hub status
The new service will operate three times per 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 depart California at 10:20, landing back in Casablanca the following day at 05:25.
This expansion aligns with the national airline’s development plan, formalized in an agreement with the government in July 2023. Its primary objective is to solidify Casablanca’s position as a pivotal air hub connecting Africa, Europe, and the Americas, simultaneously catering to the substantial demand from the diaspora, tourists, business travelers, and football enthusiasts.
With this latest launch, RAM further cements its presence in North America, complementing its already established direct routes to New York, Washington, Miami, Montréal, and Toronto.