Business aviation: The juicy business of private jets in Morocco
Tuesday, October 10, Casablanca. It is 1:10 pm. A private jet, of the Cessna 650 model, belonging to the Moroccan business aviation company Sarah Airways, coming from Tangiers, lands at Mohammed V airport. On board were two VIP passengers, namely a Russian woman and an American man. Two pilots were at the controls, and a young stewardess was on hand to take care of them.
As they disembarked, they climbed aboard a chauffeur-driven black Mercedes, which had been waiting for them on the tarmac for some time. The vehicle heads straight for the Jetex Executive FBO, a terminal dedicated to business aviation.
The Jetex team on site has already been informed of their guests’ arrival. Every detail has been prepared to welcome them. Attentive and smiling, Amina Bahbah, Station Manager, personally sees to it. Drinks, cakes, petits fours, snacks, juices…, and flowers are offered to VIP clients.
Arriving at the FBO, VIP travellers are greeted by the reception staff in front of the entrance. Their first contact with handling services is in the VIP lounge, a comfortable, cosy area with a breathtaking view of the tarmac, where they can enjoy a coffee or a drink while waiting for the Jetex team to complete the formalities and security control procedures. Customs services are available on site. No queues. ONDA (Moroccan National Airports Authority) has set up this area to allow rapid passage of private jet passengers, for whom time is precious. Many businesspeople prefer to board these more luxurious machines for their business trips.
“We receive from 2 to 12 flights a day. It depends on the season. The peak period is September, after the summer vacations. The same applies to February, March, April and May. Activity drops off and stagnates during the summer months of July and August «, says Amina Bahbah, which is perfectly normal, since Casablanca is first and foremost a business destination.
A symbol of luxury mobility, the private jet has become an essential travel tool for government officials, companies, and celebrities alike.
“Our primary clientele are ministers and senior government officials. We also carry Moroccan and foreign business leaders based in Morocco, as well as stars of soccer and showbiz, including American actors «, explains Soumia Ryad, Sales Manager at Sarah Airways. Tourists are also on the privileged people’s list.
K.S.
