Morocco Issues New Regulations for Passenger Data in Aviation

Morocco has implemented a new ministerial decision outlining detailed requirements for passenger information in both commercial and general aviation. The decision, published in the Official Gazette on October 5, 2023, is co-signed by the Ministers of Interior, Economy and Finance, and Transport and Logistics. It applies to all passenger data, crew information, and general aviation flight regulations.

The decision, numbered 218.26, is a follow-up to Decree No. 2.21.624 issued on July 21, 2022, which enforced Article 212 of Law No. 40.13 on civil aviation. It covers three main areas: passenger information, commercial flights, and general aviation. The first section details passenger information, including identity, booking details, and luggage. The second section addresses national and international commercial flights and crew members. The third section regulates general aviation flights.

Passenger information includes two main categories. The first category pertains to passenger identity, including full name, date and place of birth, gender, residence address, contact details, emergency contact information, payment methods, frequent flyer details, and accompanying passengers. It also includes collected data such as passport number, nationality, travel documents, departure and arrival points, and any changes to this data. Special provisions are made for unaccompanied minors, including their legal representative's information and accompanying person details at departure and arrival. The second category relates to booking records, including booking and ticketing dates, flight dates, passenger status, and travel agency information.

The decision also specifies requirements for commercial flights, covering both national and international routes. It mandates the collection of flight details, crew information, and operational data. For general aviation, the decision outlines regulations for flight plans, pilot information, and aircraft details. The new regulations aim to enhance aviation safety and security by standardizing data collection and management practices across all sectors of the aviation industry.

CONTEXT: This decision is part of a broader effort by Morocco to modernize and standardize its aviation regulations, aligning with international standards and enhancing safety and security measures. The detailed requirements for passenger data and flight information aim to improve the efficiency and reliability of aviation operations, benefiting both passengers and industry stakeholders.