Like other regions, North African aviation is undergoing a transformative phase driven by strategic innovation in fleet expansion, world-class pilot training, and technological self-reliance. Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are leveraging aviation infrastructure investments to enhance regional connectivity and establish themselves as continental aviation powerhouses, capitalising on robust growth in air traffic demand.
Algerian fleet expansion
Air Algierie is expanding its fleet to meet rising local travel demand. The nation’s flag carrier plans to launch a domestic airline which is wholly owned by the state, supporting the initiative with the acquisition of 16 aircraft and the leasing of eight others, comprised of Boeing and Airbus models. This fleet expansion is funded by the National Investment Fund who hope the initiative will accomplish the projected 50% increase in air traffic. This reinforces Algeria’s position in North African aviation, enhancing connectivity (particularly in southern regions), and supporting ambitious aviation goals set out by the nation.
World-class pilot training in Morocco
Morocco’s aviation sector is partaking in a strategic partnership between Airways Aviation and Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA) , with hopes to deliver world-class pilot training. This collaboration offers a modular, EASA-certified program that combines initial training at Ben Slimane Airport with the opportunity for advanced specialisations in Europe. The modern facilities they are equipped with position MAPA to adequately meet the country’s growing demand for well-qualified and well-trained pilots. This partnership, aligned with the expansion of Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc, is in line with Morocco’s emerging station as a local hub, bolstered further by significant state investment in aviation.
Technological self-reliance in Egypt
Egypt is advancing its aviation capabilities through a cooperation protocol signed between the Egyptian Aviation Academy and the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation. This agreement focuses on developing advanced flight simulators and intelligent training systems that meet international standards. By prioritising technological self-reliance, Egypt aims to reduce reliance on imported equipment and position itself as a premier hub for aviation training in the Middle East and Africa. The Egyptian Aviation Academy, complemented by EgyptAir Training Academy’s recent EASA Level D certification for its A330/A340 simulator, strengthens Egypt’s ability to advance pilot training and safety standards.
These developments reflect a concerted effort across North Africa to drive aviation growth and ride the wave of skyrocketing air travel demand experienced in the region. By investing in aviation infrastructure and training, Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are solidifying their role as regional players, poised now to better meet their growing air travel needs and compete on a global stage.
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