Morocco’s Royal Air Maroc Halts Flights for French Passengers to Niger Amid Diplomatic Tensions

The Nigerien authorities would have prohibited access to their country to French citizens. Air Burkina indicated in a press release that the information suggesting their refusal to board French people did not come from them and that they were not responsible for any possible consequences.

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) specifically stated that, without special authorization from the Nigerien authorities, French passengers can no longer be accepted on its flights to Niamey for about a week. Other companies, such as Ethiopian Airlines, Asky, Air Tunisie, and Turkish Airlines, have not yet spoken on the matter, but it seems to be the case as well.

Relations between Niger and France have deteriorated since the military coup of July 26, 2023 that overthrew elected president Mohamed Bazoum. France has even closed its embassy in Niger, citing major obstacles to its functioning, including a blockade and movement restrictions for its personnel.