Royal Air Maroc is preparing to reshape transatlantic aviation with its groundbreaking direct Casablanca–Los Angeles route, set to begin on June 7, 2026. The 12-hour flight—operated from Mohammed V International Airport—creates the first-ever nonstop air bridge between Africa and the US West Coast, a development hailed as historic for global connectivity.

With this expansion, Royal Air Maroc strengthens its US footprint, joining existing services to New York, Washington D.C., and Miami. The timing is strategically aligned with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across North America, drawing millions of visitors. For tourism leaders, RAM’s new service elevates Morocco’s role as a continental hub and positions the country as a gateway for American fans, businesses, and travelers exploring Africa.

The Casablanca–Los Angeles route signals a broader ambition by the airline and the Kingdom of Morocco to deepen intercontinental ties. By linking Africa directly to the Pacific Coast, Royal Air Maroc enhances mobility for the vast African diaspora in California and beyond, while offering tourists and executives a seamless travel corridor. The route reinforces Morocco’s identity as a centerpiece for long-haul travel across the Atlantic.

For Africa’s travel and tourism industries, the implications are far-reaching. Travelers flying from western US cities will gain streamlined access not only to Morocco, but to dozens of onward destinations across Africa via Casablanca. The city’s expanding role as a transit hub allows visitors to connect efficiently to sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and even the Middle East through RAM’s growing network and partnerships with global carriers listed by the International Air Transport Association. This enhanced connectivity is expected to drive momentum for multi-country itineraries and longer visitor stays.

Royal Air Maroc’s latest expansion aligns with increasing global interest in long-haul travel and the rising profile of Africa as a premier tourism and investment destination. The airline’s long-haul strategy aims to capture a competitive share of the transatlantic market while supporting Morocco’s national vision of welcoming up to 90 million travelers in the coming years. With a direct link to Los Angeles, RAM strengthens its campaign to promote Africa as a compelling destination for American travelers.

The new route is designed to attract a broad demographic. For the African diaspora especially those with ties to North and West Africa—the flight offers a time-saving alternative to multi-stop itineraries. Business travelers gain new pathways for trade, innovation, and cross-border ventures between Africa and California’s diverse economic sectors. Tourists benefit from effortless access to Morocco’s culture, landscapes, and rich heritage, as well as RAM’s extensive onward network connecting to vibrant destinations across Africa.

Industry analysts have highlighted the impeccable timing of the launch. With the 2026 World Cup projected to generate unprecedented travel demand, RAM’s service creates a crucial link for fans, teams, and officials flying from Africa. This will boost visibility for both the airline and Morocco’s tourism sector. Analysts also expect the move to encourage other African airlines to expand long-haul offerings, amplifying the continent’s global reach in aviation.

For Africa’s tourism professionals, the route unlocks new commercial opportunities. Operators and hospitality firms can develop tailored travel packages for Americans seeking immersive cultural journeys across Morocco and the African continent. The direct flight enables new marketing alliances, cross-border collaborations, and innovative travel products that reflect evolving consumer preferences and creativity within the sector.

As Africa’s aviation landscape continues to evolve, Royal Air Maroc’s decision to connect Casablanca directly to Los Angeles serves as a bold statement of intent. This new route is poised to become a powerful catalyst for growth, elevating Africa’s position in global tourism and air transport. With the countdown to June 2026 underway, industry stakeholders across sub-Saharan Africa are urged to prepare for the opportunities this milestone will deliver—solidifying Africa’s future in global travel.