June 7, 2026

The Panafrican Press

English-language platform committed to rigorous, independent journalism across the African continent.

Royal air moroc launches direct flight from casablanca to los angeles

In a groundbreaking move, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has inaugurated a direct flight route connecting Casablanca to Los Angeles, marking a historic milestone as the first-ever non-stop air connection between Africa and the Pacific coast of the United States.

The inaugural flight took off at 04:00 from Mohammed V International Airport, completing a 12-hour journey to its transatlantic destination. This landmark development coincides with the 250th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Morocco and the United States, as well as the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Atlas Lions are set to compete.

Royal Air Maroc strengthens its global presence

During the announcement, Hamid Addou, CEO of Royal Air Maroc, emphasized the strategic importance of this new route: “This direct flight solidifies our position as a key player in African aviation and reinforces Morocco’s role as a vital link between continents. By connecting Casablanca to North America, we are expanding our network to better serve passengers, businesses, and cultural exchanges.”

A weekly schedule to boost connectivity

The new Casablanca-Los Angeles service will operate three times per week, utilizing state-of-the-art wide-body aircraft. Departures from Casablanca are scheduled for Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 04:00, arriving in Los Angeles at 08:20 local time. Return flights from California depart at 10:20, reaching Casablanca the following day at 05:25.

This initiative is part of a broader expansion plan agreed upon with the Moroccan government in July 2023. It aims to enhance Casablanca’s status as a major aviation hub, bridging Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The route is expected to meet strong demand from the Moroccan diaspora, tourists, business travelers, and football fans traveling for the 2026 World Cup.

Royal Air Maroc now reinforces its footprint in North America with this new addition to its existing direct routes to New York, Washington, Miami, Montréal, and Toronto.