Airlines Face Turbulence Over Controversial Western Sahara Routes

Low-cost European airline companies started flying directly to Western Sahara even though Morocco and Polisario Front keep fighting for its territorial rights. Ryanair and Transavia began airline flights that link Madrid and Paris air routes to Dakhla Airport in the disputed territory. The low-cost €20 flights received strong support from travelers when Spanish hotel developer Virginia Santana used them.

The Moroccan government uses flight connections to achieve its development plans for the territory that it dominates over 80% of following Spanish withdrawal in 1975. Moroccan Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor explained that Dakhla airport now serves twice as many international connections, which will handle about 47,000 seats next year.

As a political organization seeking control over Western Sahara, the Polisario Front has stated it will take legal action against all airlines that operate the new route.

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EU Commission records show Morocco’s agreement does not permit direct flights from Spain to Western Sahara. Airlines continue their regular flight operations while following established rules even though this decision remains in place.

• Ryanair operates its flights under all government laws that regulate aviation activity.
• The airline announced that its operations received full approval from official government bodies.
• Spain’s civil aviation authority points to the 1944 Chicago Convention which sells Spain total control over its aviation space