Marrakech Hot Air Balloon Operators Face Suspensions Over Flight Safety Concerns

– bySylvanus@Bladi · 1 min read
Marrakech Hot Air Balloon Operators Face Suspensions Over Flight Safety Concerns

The licenses of two more tourism agencies organizing leisure hot air balloon rides in Marrakech have just been suspended by the Civil Aviation Authority under the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, bringing the total number of licenses withdrawn in this case to five.

Sanctions are pouring in. Sources from Hespress had previously confirmed that three travel agencies had their licenses revoked following a complaint filed by the captain of a flight bound for Marrakech. He claims to have observed hot air balloons from the Rhamna region flying at high altitude, thus threatening the safety of aircraft heading to Marrakech-Menara airport. Two more companies have been added to the list. These five tourism companies are suspended for a period of six months.

Following the suspension decision, an investigation has been opened under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the Ministry of Interior, and the Royal Gendarmerie, to determine the infractions committed by the five agencies, as well as the sanctions and penalties that will be imposed on them, in accordance with the texts in force. It is not excluded that legal proceedings may be initiated against these agencies.