Published on
August 30, 2025
Ryanair has announced a significant reduction of nearly one million seats from its winter schedule at regional airports in Spain, a move driven by a 6.5% increase in airport fees for 2026 imposed by Aena, Spain’s state-run airport operator. The airline has criticized the hike as unjustified, prompting the decision to scale back its operations in Spain. At the same time, Ryanair is shifting its focus to Morocco, redirecting resources to expand its growing operations in the country’s rapidly developing aviation market. This strategic shift aims to capitalize on Morocco’s rising demand for air travel, enhancing connectivity between Morocco and Europe while reinforcing Ryanair’s position in North Africa.
Ryanair is set to reduce its operations at several regional airports in Spain, removing close to one million seats from its winter flight schedule. In contrast, the airline is expanding its focus on Morocco, increasing routes and enhancing its investment in the country to meet the growing demand for air travel.
The decision to cut back in Spain follows Aena’s announcement of a 6.5% increase in airport fees for 2026. Ryanair has criticized the hike, calling it “unjustified and damaging” for the airline’s operations in Spain. In response, Ryanair will reassign its capacity to more profitable markets, with Morocco emerging as a key destination for expansion.
Ryanair has significantly increased its presence in Morocco, capitalizing on the rising interest in the country as a travel destination. With an emphasis on better connectivity, Ryanair is strengthening its services between Morocco and Europe, aiming to enhance tourism and expand its market share in the region.
Ryanair’s Growing Influence in Morocco
Ryanair has established a strong operational presence in Morocco, with bases in four major cities: Marrakech, Fez, Agadir, and Tangier. The Tangier base, which opened in July 2024, is part of a broader strategy to solidify Ryanair’s presence in North Africa and strengthen air travel between Morocco and key European destinations.
In 2024, the airline operated 14 aircraft in Morocco, running more than 1,100 weekly flights across 175 routes. This includes 35 new routes, opening up more travel options for European tourists and enhancing connections to less-visited destinations in Morocco. Ryanair’s expanded presence in the country has helped make travel more accessible for both international tourists and local travelers.
One of the standout initiatives from Ryanair is its launch of Morocco’s first domestic air network in 2024. With 11 routes connecting nine Moroccan cities, this new network has made air travel more affordable and convenient for Moroccan passengers. Domestic flights on the network start at just MAD 330 ($33), further democratizing access to air travel. Additionally, Ryanair has expanded its operations to emerging airports like Beni Mellal and Errachidia, boosting regional connectivity across the country.
Economic Benefits for Morocco
Ryanair’s investment in Morocco is having a tangible impact on the local economy. In 2024, the airline expects to transport over 5 million passengers to, from, and within Morocco, contributing around $1.4 billion to the country’s economy. This influx has provided a boost to the Moroccan tourism industry, creating thousands of jobs across the hospitality and retail sectors.
The airline’s base in Tangier, which operates two aircraft across 25 routes—13 of which are new—has created more than 600 local jobs. This is a clear indication of Ryanair’s positive contribution to regional economic development. Furthermore, Ryanair’s operations are helping to align with Morocco’s tourism and economic strategies, including its goal of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup in partnership with Spain and Portugal.
Expansion Plans for 2025 and Beyond
Looking ahead, Ryanair’s growth in Morocco is expected to continue. The airline is set to offer 3.7 million seats during the summer of 2025, building on its success and adding new routes to emerging destinations. With these expansions, Ryanair aims to strengthen its position as a major player in Morocco’s aviation market.
One of the notable additions to Ryanair’s network is the new connection between Dakhla, a city in southern Morocco, and major European hubs like Madrid and Lanzarote. These new routes are a part of the airline’s strategy to develop Morocco as a year-round destination, offering travelers access to lesser-known regions and expanding the country’s appeal as a unique and diverse travel destination.
Additionally, Ryanair has launched new direct flights from Dublin to Rabat, enhancing the connectivity between Morocco and European markets. This further solidifies Morocco’s standing as a growing international tourism destination, with Ryanair playing an essential role in driving this expansion.
Ryanair is cutting nearly one million seats from its winter schedule in Spain due to a 6.5% increase in airport fees, while shifting focus to expand its growing operations in Morocco’s expanding aviation market.
Ryanair’s Role in Morocco’s Tourism Future
Ryanair’s increasing presence in Morocco is central to the country’s tourism strategy, providing the necessary air connectivity to boost international travel and support local economies. As the airline continues to expand its network and offer new routes, it is playing a critical role in Morocco’s efforts to position itself as a top global destination for tourists.
The airline’s commitment to Morocco will continue to generate long-term benefits for the country’s tourism sector. By improving air connectivity, introducing new routes, and making travel more accessible, Ryanair is helping to strengthen Morocco’s position on the global tourism map. With increasing investment and a growing route network, Ryanair is poised to continue its pivotal role in shaping the future of Morocco’s tourism industry, contributing to the country’s overall economic development.
