Royal Air Maroc History: 1957 to Today – Airline Employee Shop

Royal Air Maroc History

Royal Air Maroc took its name in 1957, the year after Moroccan independence, and grew from Casablanca into a link between Africa, Europe and the Americas. Here's a short history of Royal Air Maroc, plus the Royal Air Maroc collection that celebrates them.

Two roots, one name (1946-1959)

The airline grew from two earlier carriers. Air Atlas was set up in 1946 with Junkers Ju 52s, and Air Maroc was founded in 1947, starting scheduled flights in 1949. The two came together in the 1950s, and the airline adopted the name Royal Air Maroc on June 28, 1957, with the government as majority owner. In 1958 long-haul routes began with Lockheed Constellations leased from Air France, and the airline gained the right to carry pilgrims from Casablanca to Jeddah.

The jet age (1960-1986)

A Sud Aviation Caravelle joined the fleet in April 1960 as the airline's first jet. The first Boeing, a 727-200, entered service in May 1970. In 1975 the airline added flights to North America, with a leased Boeing 707 serving New York. A Boeing 747-200B arrived in September 1978. Royal Air Maroc joined IATA in 1982. In July 1986 it became the first African airline to fly the Boeing 757.

Dreamliners and oneworld (2000-today)

In 2000 the airline ordered 20 Boeing 737 Next Generation jets and four Airbus A321s. Boeing delivered its first 787 Dreamliner in December 2014. The first 737 MAX 8 and 787-9 followed in December 2018. On April 1, 2020, Royal Air Maroc joined the oneworld alliance as its 14th member. Its hub is Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, and it had 61 aircraft in July 2025. In 2023 it announced plans to double its fleet over the next decade. The Moroccan state remains the main owner.

A few things collectors love

  • The star on the tail, based on the Moroccan flag, set against a white livery with red and green.
  • The Caravelle, the airline's first jet.
  • Royal Air Maroc was the first African airline to fly the Boeing 757.

Shop Royal Air Maroc

Browse Royal Air Maroc logo T-shirts, coffee mugs, coasters, tote bags and vintage designs in the Royal Air Maroc collection. Add an airline bag tag or key tag to finish the look.

AirlineEmployeeShop.com is an independent retailer of airline memorabilia. This page is for historical interest and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Royal Air Maroc.