Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is expanding Morocco’s domestic flight network with a direct connection between Casablanca and Essaouira, offering economy-class tickets at a fixed, subsidised price of 400 Moroccan dirhams per journey.
The new service was officially inaugurated in Essaouira on October 28, 2026, and is scheduled to begin operating on November 1. With two return services each week, the route is intended to make travel easier, improve regional connectivity and attract more visitors to the Atlantic coastal city.
Casablanca–Essaouira Flights: Schedule and Ticket Prices
The new route will operate every Wednesday and Sunday, linking Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport with Essaouira.
The economy fare is set at MAD 400 for a one-way ticket, meaning a return trip costs MAD 800 at the stated fixed rate.
According to the published schedule, flights will operate as follows:
| Route and day | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Casablanca to Essaouira — Wednesday | 4:00 pm | 5:20 pm |
| Essaouira to Casablanca — Wednesday | 6:00 pm | 7:20 pm |
| Casablanca to Essaouira — Sunday | 8:20 am | 9:40 am |
| Essaouira to Casablanca — Sunday | 10:20 am | 11:40 am |
The published timetable indicates a journey of approximately one hour and 20 minutes. Morocco’s transport minister has also pointed to the possibility of shorter flight times in the future, depending on the arrival of newer aircraft.
New Route Expected to Support Essaouira Tourism
The direct connection is expected to make Essaouira more accessible to domestic travellers and international visitors arriving through Casablanca.
Essaouira is known for its historic medina, coastal scenery, fishing port, beaches and cultural attractions. Its historic centre is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while events such as the Gnaoua and World Music Festival contribute to its appeal among tourists.
Improved air access could help visitors spend less time arranging onward transport and make short trips to the city more convenient. Tourism operators and other local businesses may also benefit if the service encourages more people to visit throughout the year.
Royal Air Maroc’s Domestic Expansion Strategy
The Casablanca–Essaouira service forms part of Royal Air Maroc’s wider plan to strengthen links between Moroccan cities and make domestic air travel more accessible ahead of 2030.
Transport and Logistics Minister Abdessamad Kayouh said the initiative aligns with efforts to expand the airline’s domestic network and improve connections between regions. The project was developed through cooperation between the national carrier, government departments and regional authorities in Marrakech-Safi.
The route will also connect Essaouira with Royal Air Maroc’s wider international network through Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport. The airline’s Casablanca hub serves 86 international destinations, giving passengers travelling from Essaouira additional options for onward journeys abroad.
What the New Flight Route Means for Travellers
For Moroccan residents, the new service offers another way to travel between the country’s economic centre and one of its best-known coastal destinations. The fixed fare may also help passengers plan their travel budgets more easily.
International tourists could benefit from simpler connections when combining a stay in Casablanca with a visit to Essaouira. Meanwhile, local tourism businesses may gain from increased visitor traffic, although the route’s long-term economic impact will depend on passenger demand and how consistently the service operates.
The launch reflects Morocco’s broader efforts to improve domestic transport links and promote destinations beyond its largest cities. With services scheduled twice weekly from November 1, the Casablanca–Essaouira route adds another option for travellers exploring the country.
