Morocco Suspends Tour Agencies After Hot Air Balloons Endanger Flights Near Marrakech

The three companies concerned had their licenses revoked after a complaint filed by the captain of a flight bound for Marrakech who noticed that hot air balloons from the Rhamna region were flying at high altitude, thus threatening the safety of planes heading to Marrakech-Menara airport.

Under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, the Ministry of Interior, and the Royal Gendarmerie, an investigation has been opened to determine the infractions committed by the concerned agencies as well as the sanctions and penalties that will be imposed on them, in accordance with the texts in force. The matter could be brought before the courts.

The three tourism companies are suspended for a period of six months to one year. The civil aviation authority is also expected to revoke the licenses of other agencies operating in the region with a number of hot air balloons exceeding that authorized by the authorities.

Hot air balloon flights in the Marrakech region have attracted great interest from Moroccan and foreign tourists in recent years. Travel and tourism sites offer these flights at prices up to 180 euros per person.