Casablanca – Morocco’s aerospace industry is emerging as a strategic pillar for Airbus, playing a major role in aircraft manufacturing. With a presence in Morocco for over 70 years, the European manufacturer continues to strengthen its partnership with the Kingdom, which now accounts for 70% of the local aerospace industry and generated revenues exceeding $1.08 billion in 2023.
Moroccan components in every Airbus aircraft
Morocco’s integration into Airbus’ global supply chain is steadily increasing. According to Wouter Van Wersch, Airbus’ Executive Vice President International, every Airbus aircraft contains components manufactured in Morocco. This industrial footprint is primarily supported by Airbus Atlantic, which employs over 1,000 people in the country. This number is expected to grow with the ongoing acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, which also has a plant in Casablanca.
“Morocco is a key partner for Airbus. We have built a long-standing relationship that we want to deepen, as the Kingdom plays a central role in our industrial strategy,” Van Wersch stated during the 3rd Airbus Summit in Toulouse, held on March 24-25, 2025.
A rapidly expanding industry
The growth of Morocco’s aerospace sector is driven by a bold strategic vision. Through targeted investments and the development of efficient industrial ecosystems, the country is establishing itself as an African hub for high-value-added manufacturing.
The Moroccan government, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, has implemented support measures for industrial projects, fostering innovation, energy transition, and local integration. A technical assistance program, with a budget of $500,000, was recently announced to identify strategic levers and boost competitiveness.
A skilled workforce: Morocco’s key advantage
The success of Morocco’s aerospace industry is also attributed to the excellence of its technical education. Van Wersch praised Moroccan universities for their role in developing highly skilled engineers and technicians for the sector.
“There are many universities doing an excellent job. We constantly seek to integrate local talent into our mission,” he noted.
Vision 2030 and future opportunities
With the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup, Morocco is accelerating the modernization of its infrastructure, particularly its airports. Airbus is closely following these developments, seeing this event as a unique opportunity to further strengthen Morocco’s global standing.
As part of this growth, Airbus hopes that Royal Air Maroc will incorporate more Airbus aircraft into its fleet, further solidifying the manufacturer’s industrial and commercial presence in Morocco.
A long-term partnership for a greener aviation industry
Beyond economic and industrial considerations, Airbus is relying on Morocco to support its environmental transition. The European aircraft manufacturer is investing in several decarbonization initiatives, including the development of hydrogen-powered aircraft and the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
“Decarbonization is one of the pillars of our strategy. To achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, we need a collective effort,” Van Wersch emphasized, calling on governments, industries, and researchers to join forces.
With its growing role in Airbus’ supply chain, a dynamic industrial ecosystem, and ambitious strategic vision, Morocco is establishing itself as a key player in the future of aviation. With strong growth prospects and an expanding partnership with Airbus, the Kingdom reaffirms its position as Africa’s aerospace leader, committed to fostering a more innovative and sustainable industry.
