New Direct Route from Casablanca to Los Angeles: Royal Air Maroc Bridges North Africa and the US West Coast with Boeing 787 Service – Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 6, 2025

In a significant move for African aviation, Royal Air Maroc is launching its first-ever direct flights from Casablanca, Morocco to Los Angeles, USA, beginning June 7, 2026. This thrice-weekly service, utilizing state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliners, will serve as Africa’s first direct connection to the US West Coast, marking an exciting expansion for the Moroccan national carrier. With its flight schedule set for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca, the new route is poised to enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between North Africa and the United States, particularly benefiting California’s Moroccan diaspora.

An Important Move for African Connectivity

This ambitious new service marks the sixth North American destination for Royal Air Maroc, a move that solidifies its place as one of the leading players in Africa’s aviation sector. The direct flight will take approximately 12 hours, and with time zone adjustments, passengers will arrive in Los Angeles on the same day. The return leg from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will operate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This schedule is designed to meet the rising demand for more accessible travel options between the two regions, particularly for business travelers, tourists, and the growing Moroccan diaspora in California.

Strengthening Trade Ties Between Morocco and the United States

The timing of this new route couldn’t be better, as it comes at a time when trade relations between Morocco and the US are flourishing. The $2 billion annual bilateral trade between these two nations, which includes sectors like phosphates, textiles, and citrus exports, is expected to see a further boost. Los Angeles, a global hub for industries like technology, entertainment, and agriculture, aligns well with Morocco’s export strengths, creating more opportunities for business partnerships and economic collaborations.

Moreover, tourism plays a vital role in this route’s development. With Los Angeles being a popular destination for tourists from around the world, it offers a unique blend of Hollywood glamour, world-class attractions, and easy access to California’s beaches and cities. Morocco’s rich culture, historic landmarks, and luxurious resorts will now be much more accessible for American travelers, particularly those based on the West Coast. Additionally, the new flight will connect California to Morocco’s renowned cities like Marrakech, offering tourists seamless travel options to sub-Saharan Africa via Casablanca.

A Strategic Investment in Africa’s Aviation Future

Royal Air Maroc’s expansion into the US West Coast marks just one part of its larger growth strategy. As the airline looks to quadruple its fleet by 2037, with ambitions of serving 90 million passengers annually, the Casablanca-Los Angeles route represents a critical step towards achieving these lofty goals. The airline already dominates North Atlantic routes, with successful services to New York, Washington D.C., and Toronto.

With Africa emerging as a key player in global air travel, Royal Air Maroc is strategically positioning itself to serve as a bridge between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The launch of this new route is not just about increasing passenger traffic, but also strengthening Africa’s global aviation connectivity as the continent’s aviation industry continues to grow.

Key Travel Tips for Passengers

• Flight Booking: Be sure to book well in advance, as this inaugural route will likely attract high demand, especially for its direct link to Los Angeles.
• Visa Requirements: Ensure that you check US visa requirements well in advance, as this may differ depending on your nationality. Travelers from Morocco may also need to review entry rules for visa waivers or visas on arrival.
• Onboard Experience: The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is known for its advanced features, including improved cabin pressure and quieter engines, offering a more comfortable journey for passengers. Prepare for a pleasant and relaxed flight with enhanced in-flight services.
• LAX Connection Tips: If you are connecting to other international flights, ensure your layover time is enough to clear US customs and immigration, as LAX is one of the busiest airports globally.
• Explore Morocco: For those planning to explore Morocco beyond the capital city, Marrakech offers an unforgettable cultural experience, while Agadir presents a beautiful coastal escape.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The timing of this new route also holds strategic importance as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, with the US, Canada, and Mexico co-hosting the prestigious tournament. As Morocco may have its matches in the US, this new flight will provide a convenient gateway for fans traveling to Morocco’s World Cup games, amplifying the route’s value for international sports tourism. With both Los Angeles and Casablanca being major cultural hubs, the connection is likely to boost global tourism and generate excitement for travelers eager to experience the world-class attractions of both regions.

A Game-Changer for Transatlantic Travel

As Royal Air Maroc makes history by launching this direct flight to Los Angeles, it is not just creating a new air route, but setting the stage for more accessible travel and growing economic ties between Africa and North America. This marks a significant turning point in Africa’s aviation future, providing travelers with more choices, faster connections, and exciting new destinations to explore.

With such strong economic and cultural implications, this flight will surely pave the way for more partnerships, enhanced tourism, and easier connections between North Africa and North America in the years to come. Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or a soccer fan looking to cheer on Morocco in the 2026 World Cup, this new route offers something for everyone.