The aviation services group Swissport International has signed a binding agreement to acquire Swiftair Maroc, a move that significantly strengthens its cargo operations in Morocco and expands its presence at the country’s largest air freight hub.
Based in Casablanca, Swiftair Maroc operates at Mohammed V Airport, which handles roughly 95% of Morocco’s total air cargo traffic and plays a central role in connecting the country’s export industries with international markets.
As part of the deal, Swissport will gain control of Swiftair Maroc’s 3,700 sqm airside warehouse facility, which includes temperature-controlled infrastructure designed for pharmaceutical shipments and perishable goods — two cargo segments seeing growing demand across global supply chains.
Swissport CEO Warwick Brady described Morocco as a fast-growing and strategically important market sitting at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Americas.
He said the acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to accelerate the expansion of its global cargo business, while strengthening its ability to support industries such as automotive, aerospace, agriculture and textiles — all sectors that depend heavily on efficient air logistics.
For Swiftair, the transaction reflects a broader strategic refocus. Founder and CEO Salvador Moreno said the group is gradually exiting non core activities in order to reinforce its position in the air cargo sector, while expressing confidence in Swissport’s ability to support the next stage of growth for the Moroccan operation.
Morocco’s air cargo market has expanded steadily in recent years, supported by the country’s growing industrial base, export activity and geographic positioning between major global markets. Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport remains the backbone of these flows, particularly for time-sensitive shipments.
The acquisition also builds on Swissport’s already significant footprint in Morocco. Through Swissport Maroc, the company already provides ground handling services at 16 airports across the country, operates executive aviation services in Marrakesh, Casablanca and Tangier, and manages 10 airport lounges under its Aspire brand.
Adding cargo handling capabilities is seen as a logical next step in creating a more integrated aviation and logistics offering across the Moroccan market.
Swissport also sees long term growth potential linked to Morocco’s preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, a period expected to bring additional investment in airport infrastructure, connectivity and logistics capacity.
The transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
