Aviation Industry in Casablanca: A Model of Moroccan-French Cooperation and Women’s Leadership in Engineering

The city of Casablanca is witnessing remarkable growth in the aviation sector, becoming a key platform for economic and industrial cooperation between Morocco and France, thanks to major investments by the French aerospace leader Safran.

French Foreign Minister Aurélie Paye highlighted on social media platform X that the production of high-tech aviation components in Casablanca is a cornerstone of the partnership between the two countries. She emphasized that every job created in Morocco corresponds to an additional job opportunity in France. This strategic vision supports major projects such as the new LEAP engine maintenance and repair center, set to launch in 2026 and expected to create around 600 jobs by 2030.

The Moroccan aviation industry is distinguished by a remarkable female participation rate, with women constituting 70% of the workforce at Safran’s Moroccan sites and representing 50% of engineers. This reflects a new dynamic in a traditionally male-dominated sector. This momentum is supported by specialized training programs, including partnerships with the Casablanca Aeronautical Institute, which will start training 60 to 100 mechanics annually from 2025, alongside collaborations with leading Moroccan universities.

Safran operates eight sites and joint ventures in Morocco, including:

  • MATIS Aerospace: producing 150,000 electrical harnesses annually for major clients such as Boeing, Airbus, and Dassault.
  • Safran Nacelles Morocco: specializing in composite materials and aircraft parts assembly.
  • Safran Aircraft Engine Services Morocco: a leading aircraft engine maintenance center in Africa.
  • Other sites focused on electronics, engineering, and shared services.

Data confirms that Safran’s investments in Morocco not only strengthen the Kingdom’s position as an African industrial hub but also create jobs and support supply chains in France. The focus on developing local talent, especially women, enhances the sector’s international competitiveness.

Despite the successes, the sector faces challenges related to accelerating training programs and developing infrastructure to keep pace with rapid growth, especially given Morocco’s ambition to produce its first domestic aircraft by 2030. However, the strategic partnership with France and continuous investment in human resources and technology open promising horizons for the future of Morocco’s aviation industry.

Casablanca’s aviation industry exemplifies a successful model of economic integration between Morocco and France, where women play a pivotal role in engineering and manufacturing. The emphasis on investing in local talent ensures sustainable industrial leadership.

About محمد الفاسي