Casablanca – Moroccan aviation authorities have introduced temporary fuel management measures at the country’s airports following disruptions in jet fuel supplies caused by severe weather conditions and port closures. The decision aims to ensure the continuity of air traffic, protect strategic fuel reserves, and prevent operational disruptions while logistics gradually return to normal.

The measures were formalized through an official aviation notice (NOTAM), issued by Morocco’s Flight Information Region (GMMM). The notice entered into force on February 7 and remains valid until February 13, 2026. It applies to all inbound flights to Morocco, including scheduled commercial services, charter flights, and cargo operations, without exception.

Weather-related supply disruptions

According to official sources, the current constraints on jet fuel availability are the result of persistent adverse weather conditions that have affected maritime traffic over several weeks. Heavy rainfall and rough seas have disrupted port operations, delaying the docking and unloading of fuel tankers.

A vessel carrying approximately 35,000 tons of aviation fuel was reportedly unable to enter Jorf Lasfar port for more than two weeks due to unfavorable sea conditions. In addition, over 100 other ships transporting various goods experienced similar delays. Major ports, including Tangier Med and key northern ports, were temporarily closed, further affecting fuel supply chains to airports across the country.

These maritime disruptions have also slowed down land transport operations, with truck movements facing delays in distributing fuel from ports to airport storage facilities. As a result, fuel stocks at several airports, particularly those serving Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat, have come under pressure.

Fuel planning requirements for airlines

In response, Moroccan civil aviation authorities have instructed airlines to adjust their fuel planning before departure. The new requirements are designed to minimize reliance on refueling at Moroccan airports during the period of constrained supply, while ensuring that safety standards remain fully respected.

For wide-body aircraft, airlines have been advised to carry the maximum amount of fuel possible from their departure airports, within technical performance limits and safety regulations, including maximum landing weight restrictions. This approach allows such aircraft to complete their operations in Morocco without depending heavily on local fuel supplies.

For narrow-body and medium-range aircraft, the measures are more stringent. Operators are required to apply fuel tankering, meaning that aircraft must carry enough fuel to cover both the outbound and return legs of their journeys. This effectively eliminates the need for refueling in Morocco for short- and medium-haul routes, except in cases where minimum safety requirements make it necessary.

Although the measures are strict, authorities have allowed limited flexibility. Refueling in Moroccan airports remains possible only at the minimum level required to ensure safe departure and onward flight. Airlines are strongly encouraged to reduce local fueling operations to the greatest extent possible throughout the validity period of the notice.

Scope and exemptions

The NOTAM applies to all commercial, charter, and cargo flights operating to and from Morocco. However, certain categories of flights are exempt from these measures. These include military aircraft, Moroccan government aircraft, and air ambulance services, which operate under separate arrangements due to their critical or specialized missions.

Importantly, the notice does not involve airport closures or flight cancellations. Moroccan authorities have emphasized that air traffic operations continue as normal and that the measures are purely technical and precautionary in nature.

Situation remains under control

Officials from both the aviation and energy sectors have stressed that the situation, while requiring close monitoring, remains under control. According to senior government sources, the current shortage falls within the range of logistical challenges typically managed through standard contingency procedures.

Authorities have indicated that unloading operations at ports are expected to resume as weather conditions improve, with fuel tankers already beginning to dock and discharge cargo in some locations. Coordination with fuel importers is ongoing to ensure that national strategic fuel reserves remain protected and that airport supply chains stabilize in the coming days.

Energy sector officials have also confirmed that the recorded shortage is limited and does not pose a risk to the overall fuel security of the country. Continuous monitoring and coordination are being maintained to prevent any escalation or disruption to air transport services.

Operational impact on airlines

The measures present logistical challenges for airlines, particularly in terms of aircraft weight management, payload optimization, and fuel efficiency. Carrying additional fuel increases aircraft weight, which can affect payload capacity and operating costs. However, authorities have emphasized that safety considerations remain paramount and that the measures are temporary and proportionate to the current situation.

Short- and medium-haul flights, especially those operating from nearby European destinations, are best positioned to comply with fuel tankering requirements. Long-haul flights, by contrast, may still require limited refueling upon arrival in Morocco, as carrying sufficient fuel for both legs may exceed aircraft capacity or weight limits.

Despite these constraints, airlines have continued to operate scheduled services, and there have been no reports of widespread flight cancellations linked directly to fuel availability. Authorities continue to work closely with airport operators, fuel suppliers, and carriers to ensure smooth coordination during this period.

Regional context

Morocco is not alone in facing weather-related disruptions to maritime and fuel supply chains. Similar port disturbances have been reported in parts of Spain and Portugal, reflecting broader regional impacts from recent meteorological conditions. This regional context has contributed to delays in fuel deliveries across several Atlantic-facing ports.

Outlook

Moroccan authorities expect the situation to improve as weather conditions stabilize and port operations resume normal activity. The temporary fuel management measures are intended to bridge the gap until regular supply flows are restored.

In the meantime, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the continuity of air transport services, protecting strategic fuel reserves, and maintaining high safety standards. The current approach reflects internationally recognized operational practices used during temporary supply disruptions and is consistent with guidelines under the International Civil Aviation Organization’s air navigation notice system.

As logistics normalize, authorities are expected to reassess the measures and lift restrictions accordingly, allowing airports and airlines to return to standard fueling operations.