Eddie Wilson, CEO Of Ryanair. Photo Credit : Ryanair
Ryanair is set to open a new airline base at Rabat-Salé Airport, marking its fifth base in Morocco. The investment, estimated at around $200 million, will significantly boost connectivity for travellers and support Morocco’s tourism and economic development goals. The base is scheduled to begin operations in April 2026.
A New Base in Rabat
The new facility will be staffed with two aircraft and is expected to operate approximately 20 routes, including several new international connections. Rabat becomes the fifth Moroccan city hosting a Ryanair base, following other major hubs across the country.
Expanded Route Network
Ryanair plans to launch at least seven new international routes from Rabat in summer 2026. Key destinations include:
- Milan-Bergamo, Italy
- Baden-Baden, Germany
- Frankfurt Hahn, Germany
- Nuremberg, Germany
- Porto, Portugal
- Pisa, Italy
- Valencia, Spain
In its first season, the base is expected to operate around 18 weekly flights, adding roughly 79,000 additional seats to and from Rabat.
Boosting Connectivity and Capacity
The Rabat base represents a significant increase in air traffic capacity, with projections indicating a +45% rise in summer operations compared to previous schedules. It is part of Ryanair’s most ambitious summer deployment in Morocco, covering 13 airports nationwide and supporting over 10.7 million passengers.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The new base is expected to create over 800 local jobs, including approximately 60 positions for pilots and cabin crew. This investment strengthens Morocco’s aviation sector and contributes to the local economy while improving international connectivity.
Strategic Importance
This expansion demonstrates Morocco’s appeal as a strategic hub for aviation and tourism. Rabat is expected to become a key destination for international travellers, leveraging the city’s cultural heritage, vibrant urban life, and coastal attractions.
Summary of Key Facts
- Location: Rabat-Salé Airport
- Base Start: April 2026
- Aircraft Based: 2
- Total Routes: ~20
- New International Routes: 7
- Estimated Seats Added: 79,000
- Capacity Increase: +45%
- Local Jobs: 800+
- Passenger Volume Target: >10.7 million nationwide
Source: MAP
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