Launch of the first direct flight linking Morocco to Iceland: A new market for Moroccan tourism

In a strategic approach aimed at diversifying markets and strengthening the air offer, the Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT) enthusiastically announced the launch of the first direct flight linking Morocco to Iceland. This new route, operated by Icelandic low-cost company Play Airlines, will mark a significant step forward in connectivity between the two nations. The first flight, scheduled for Thursday, October 17, 2024, will connect Reykjavik, capital of Iceland, to the vibrant city of Marrakech, with two weekly flights on the schedule. This strategic agreement between the ONMT and Play Airlines demonstrates Morocco’s ambition to conquer new tourist horizons. In addition to the implementation of these flights, a set of joint communication actions will aim to attract travelers from Iceland and North America, markets with high potential for the Morocco destination. This partnership is all the more strategic as Play Airlines, with its hub in Reykjavik, already connects the Scandinavian markets and Western Europe to several destinations in North America. With five connections operating to major cities such as New York, Washington, Boston, Toronto and Baltimore, this new line will also connect the United States and Morocco via the Icelandic capital. This represents a tremendous opportunity for Morocco to capture a growing North American tourist flow, while consolidating its position on the Scandinavian market. The ONMT recently highlighted the importance of Iceland and the Scandinavian countries in its tourism development strategy. Initiatives, such as the organization of a “Light Tour” in May 2024, made it possible to prospect more than 150 Scandinavian operators, thus consolidating the appeal of Morocco among Nordic travelers. With a notable increase in air capacity for winter 2024, Morocco is establishing itself as a key destination for tourists from the Scandinavian and North American regions. Thanks to historic partnerships with the main airlines of Northern Europe, there are now 21 direct weekly flights which connect the cities of Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Oslo and Reykjavik to the Moroccan tourist jewels of Marrakech and Agadir. This air expansion confirms Morocco’s leading role in international tourism and reflects the Kingdom’s desire to position itself as an essential destination, offering its visitors rich and varied experiences, combining tradition, modernity and legendary hospitality.