Morocco is vigorously intensifying its plans to transform its largely agrarian economy into an aerospace powerhouse. It intends to grow its already $2 billion-a-year aviation industry by becoming a hub of the industry’s production process.
Luring investors with subsidized costs of production planes as well as affordable labour are some of the plans the Kingdom has outlined.
With major manufacturers looking to ramp up production to meet deliverables, the North African country is targeting a huge chunk of the design, production, and maintenance outsourcing that industry giants like Boeing and Airbus are being forced to increase to meet demands.
This effort is part of a long-term plan by the government to transform its agro-based economy and ensure growth projections for indigenous airlines, including the state-owned Royal Air Maroc.
“The needs are huge and we are in a very good position,” said Hamid Abbou, the airline’s CEO. “Most of the big suppliers in Europe are struggling to get people to work in this industry. We don’t have that issue.”
Major airlines inherited severe logistical challenges after the pandemic stalled air traffic as well as their operations. For companies like Boeing, their inability to meet the rally in demand in the aftermath was further exacerbated by emergencies and fatal crashes.
Increased global demand has forced manufacturers to transverse the globe in search of locations to produce, fix and maintain parts.
French engine manufacturer, Safran Aircraft Engines fixes engines for Boeing 737s and Airbus 320s in a plant outside of Casablanca every six to eight years and before transporting them to airlines from other countries including Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Ireland.
It is one of several companies that the country currently hosts that produce crucial airplane parts, including wings and fuselages.
Aware that many companies see Morocco as a choice destination for comparatively cheap labour, the government has worked to train skilled workers at the Institute of Aeronautical Professions (IMA) in Casablanca. It has churned out over 10,000 skilled workers.