Casablanca Airport Removes Entrance Security Scanners

Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) has removed security scanners and metal detectors from the entrances of Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca to improve passenger flow and reduce wait times as of March 5.

This decision, spearheaded by the National Airports Office (ONDA), is a key component of the ambitious “Airports 2030” modernization strategy, designed to transform the country’s aviation infrastructure and boost tourism and economic growth.

The removal of entrance security checkpoints aims to address one of the most common pain points for travelers: long wait times. By eliminating these initial bottlenecks, ONDA projects that passenger processing times will drop from an average of 45 minutes to just 25 minutes. This change is expected to significantly improve the flow of travelers through the airport, which serves as Morocco’s primary international gateway and a vital hub connecting Africa, Europe, and beyond.

While the decision might raise eyebrows, authorities emphasize that safety remains a top priority. The scanners and metal detectors have not been eliminated entirely but relocated to other strategic points within the airport. The Ministry of Interior, the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), and the Royal Gendarmerie collaborated closely with ONDA to ensure that security protocols are upheld. Passengers will still undergo thorough checks, just not at the front door.

“This is about efficiency without sacrificing safety,” an ONDA spokesperson said. “We’re reimagining how we manage security to create a seamless experience while maintaining the highest standards.”

The initiative at Mohammed V Airport is just the beginning. ONDA plans to roll out similar changes at other major airports across Morocco, with Marrakech Menara Airport slated to follow in the coming days. The “Airports 2030” strategy also includes a massive expansion of Mohammed V Airport’s capacity, aiming to increase its annual passenger throughput from 15 million to 35 million by 2029, as announced by ONDA on February 18.

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Victor Shalton

Victor Shalton's love for aviation can be traced to when he was 11-years-old. As a seasoned aviation writer, he takes pride in providing the best aviation coverage around the globe and is passionate about advancing his skills in the aviation space. In addition, he loves travelling, writing, arts and while his speaking engagements have taken him around the world, he is proud to call Nairobi home.

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