North Africa’s aviation sector is entering a transformative phase, marked by bold investments in fleet expansion, world-class pilot training, and a push for technological self-reliance. Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are at the forefront of this evolution, leveraging infrastructure enhancements to boost regional connectivity and position themselves as emerging aviation powerhouses on the African continent.
Algeria’s flag carrier, Air Algérie, is spearheading a major fleet expansion aimed at addressing rising demand for domestic air travel. Backed by the National Investment Fund, the airline is acquiring 16 new aircraft and leasing eight additional jets comprising both Boeing and Airbus models. This expansion will also support the launch of a new state-owned domestic airline.
The initiative is projected to increase national air traffic by 50%, with a particular focus on improving connectivity to southern regions. By enhancing its aviation footprint, Algeria is cementing its role as a key player in North African aviation.
Road to global aviation
Morocco is taking a strategic approach to addressing its growing demand for qualified aviation professionals. A partnership between Airways Aviation and the Morocco Aviation Private Academy (MAPA) has introduced a modular, EASA-certified pilot training program. The initiative combines foundational training at Ben Slimane Airport with opportunities for advanced specialisation in Europe.
Modern facilities and an internationally-aligned curriculum position MAPA to play a critical role in Morocco’s ambitions to become a regional aviation hub. The training partnership complements the growth strategies of national carriers Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc, underpinned by strong state investment in the aviation sector.
In Egypt, the drive for technological self-sufficiency in aviation training is gaining momentum. The Egyptian Aviation Academy recently signed a cooperation protocol with the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation to develop state-of-the-art flight simulators and intelligent training systems that meet international standards.
This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported technologies and elevate Egypt’s status as a regional centre for aviation training. The country’s training capabilities are further bolstered by EgyptAir Training Academy, which recently received EASA Level D certification for its A330/A340 full-flight simulator—one of the highest certifications for flight training devices.
Collectively, these efforts reflect a broader regional strategy to capitalise on the surge in air travel demand across North Africa. Through coordinated investments in infrastructure, fleet modernisation, and human capital, Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt are not only enhancing domestic and regional connectivity but are also asserting their competitive edge on the global aviation stage.