To commemorate its 25th anniversary, Safran Aircraft Engines Services Morocco (SAESM), a collaboration between Safran Aircraft Engines and Royal Air Maroc, have unveiled the expansion of its Nouaceur plant near Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport.
The two partners also formalised a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support the continued growth of the unit, which includes an additional 2,000 m² (21,500 ft) of capacity. This expansion will enable SAESM to increase its annual shop visits from 70 to 100 by 2026. SAESM is enhancing its status as a centre of excellence for the CFM56 engine family within Safran’s global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network, offering airlines a comprehensive range of services covering the entire MRO process, from diagnosis to performance guarantee at the test bench.
The CFM56 engine, developed by Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace through their CFM International joint venture, currently powers the majority of Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft, with over 33,000 engines delivered.
“Today marks the beginning of a new phase in our partnership with Safran. This agreement will not only help us grow our Casablanca facility but also boost our expertise in the aeronautical industry. Royal Air Maroc is proud to work with Safran to develop Morocco’s aviation sector and enhance our country’s position in the global aerospace industry,” said Hamid Addou, Chairman Of the Board and CEO of Royal Air Maroc.
In support of this expansion, SAESM intends to recruit approximately 100 individuals by 2026, bringing the plant’s total workforce to 350. It will also leverage key local academic partnerships, backed by Royal Air Maroc and Safran Aircraft Engines, to foster MRO expertise in Morocco.
To contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions from Safran’s sites, the Casablanca facility is investing in the installation of solar panels on building roofs and parking lot shade structures, with the goal of achieving a renewable energy share of 30% by 2025.