Rabat, August 30, 2026 – The Europe Today: Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has taken delivery of a new Boeing 737 MAX 8, bringing the Moroccan national carrier’s fleet to a record 69 aircraft as part of its ambitious expansion and modernization strategy.
The aircraft, registered CN-RHR, arrived in Casablanca on August 27 and represents the airline’s 18th Boeing 737 MAX 8. The latest delivery also brings the number of Boeing single-aisle aircraft operated by RAM to 45, including aircraft operated by its regional subsidiary, RAM Express.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 has become a key component of RAM’s medium-haul operations, supporting high-demand routes connecting Morocco with destinations across Europe, West Africa and the Middle East. The aircraft also offers enhanced passenger comfort compared with earlier-generation models.
The latest addition forms part of RAM’s broader fleet expansion programme. Under a 2023–2037 programme contract signed between the Moroccan government and the airline in July 2023, RAM plans to expand its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, while strengthening Casablanca’s position as an international aviation hub and expanding its global network.
The airline’s Head of Engineering, Oussama El Farisi, said RAM’s development plan envisages integrating an average of 10 to 15 aircraft annually, with every aircraft undergoing a rigorous technical process to ensure compliance with international requirements and the airline’s own operational standards.
The fleet expansion comes amid continued challenges affecting Boeing’s production and delivery schedules, including supply-chain pressures and certification delays involving parts of the 737 MAX programme. Against this backdrop, securing aircraft deliveries has become increasingly important for RAM as it seeks to maintain the pace of its expansion.
RAM has also taken steps to accelerate deliveries, including efforts to bring forward aircraft initially scheduled for later delivery, while pursuing a much larger fleet renewal programme. In April 2024, the airline launched a tender for up to 200 new aircraft, inviting Boeing, Airbus, Embraer and ATR to participate.
The carrier’s modernization drive extends beyond fleet expansion. Earlier in August, RAM signed an agreement with Starlink to equip its fleet with onboard satellite internet connectivity. The rollout is scheduled to take place in stages, with full implementation expected by 2027.
The rapid expansion of Royal Air Maroc’s fleet reflects Morocco’s broader ambition to strengthen its aviation sector and prepare for increased international travel demand ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, while positioning Casablanca as a major regional and international air transport hub.
