Casablanca Airport Plans $1.5 Billion Expansion with New Hub Terminal

The National Airports Office (ONDA) is thinking big. It is carrying a project to build a new terminal at Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca. Designed in the shape of an "H", this ambitious project aims not only to meet the requirements of hub operation in line with international standards, particularly in terms of connection time, baggage handling and utilization rate of jetways, but it will also meet the needs of the forecast air traffic growth, particularly that related to the development program of Royal Air Maroc (RAM), notes ONDA in a press release.

According to the Office, this new terminal will be connected to the high-speed line (LGV) between Kenitra-Marrakech, offering travelers a fast and smooth access to the main cities of Morocco. "Like the largest international airports such as Paris-Charles de Gaulle, London-Heathrow or Hong Kong International, this modern infrastructure aims to strengthen the intermodality of transport and improve the passenger experience," specifies the same source, adding that this rail connection will not only significantly reduce travel times between Casablanca and other strategic hubs, but will also support the growth of air traffic by facilitating access to the airport for national and international travelers.

"The new terminal will also include a new 3,700 m by 45 m parallel runway with its associated taxiways and aeronautical infrastructure, as well as aircraft parking and a new 42 m high control tower," the same source further specifies, adding that the different components of the terminal will offer an entirely reinvented qualitative experience to travelers, optimizing their mobility, comfort and reception. The future hub-style terminal will be laid out on three main levels and will incorporate a green oasis, commercial areas, a large Duty Free zone, VIP lounges and a hotel, all with breathtaking views of the runways.

ONDA has already launched a tender for earthworks. As for the other tenders for construction, they will be launched in the coming months. The delivery of the new terminal is scheduled for the year 2029, the Office specifies.

"With this iconic project, ONDA reaffirms its ambitions to meet the new challenges of the country, particularly in preparation for the 2030 World Cup. It embodies the new "Airport 2030" strategy, marking a real revolution in terms of airport infrastructure in Morocco and contributing to strengthening Morocco’s position as a strategic hub for global exchanges," concludes the same source.