(3 Minutes Read)
Royal Air Maroc and China Eastern Airlines have formalized a comprehensive partnership in Shanghai aimed at significantly improving air connectivity between China and Africa. This collaboration responds to increasing trade, tourism, and cultural ties between the two regions.
The agreement includes codeshare arrangements on key routes, extended network access beyond each airline’s main hubs, and a Special Prorate Agreement (SPA) to enhance network synergy. These measures are designed to offer passengers more destination choices, streamlined transfers, and better-coordinated flight schedules between China and Africa.
Royal Air Maroc CEO Abdelhamid Addou stated that this partnership aligns with King Mohammed VI’s vision, following his pivotal 2016 visit to China which laid the foundation for renewed bilateral cooperation and South-South development models. As part of this vision, Royal Air Maroc became the first airline to launch direct flights between Casablanca and Beijing in January 2025, operating three times a week and establishing a landmark in Morocco-China aviation ties.
China Eastern President Wang Zhiqing pointed out the synergy between Shanghai’s status as a global air hub and Royal Air Maroc’s strong African presence. China Eastern’s subsidiary, Shanghai Airlines, began service between Shanghai and Casablanca via Marseille in January 2025. The route saw an increase to four weekly flights by September and introduced direct service to further improve passenger convenience.
This alliance leverages Morocco’s strategic location as a bridge between Asia, Africa, and Europe, while tapping into China’s deepening economic involvement in Africa. Both airlines are exploring further cooperation across other aviation domains, reflecting their shared goals of delivering superior service and operational efficiency.
Read Also;
https://trendsnafrica.com/royal-air-maroc-to-increase-fleet-size/
Beyond commercial benefits, the agreement serves as critical infrastructure for supporting deeper China-Africa economic integration. As trade and investment flows grow, enhanced air links will play a key role in enabling business travel, tourism, and cultural exchange. The partnership also reinforces Morocco’s emerging role as a leading aviation hub on the African continent.
