Pilotcenter.net News has found itself in the midst of a heated debate over its recent flights from Madrid and Lanzarote in Spain to the controversial region of Western Sahara in Africa. The airline, along with Transavia France, has been providing services to Dakhla Airport, a disputed territory claimed by both Morocco and the Algeria-backed Polisario Front. Since January 2025, Ryanair has been connecting these Spanish locations to Dakhla, emphasizing its commitment to expanding travel opportunities in Morocco.

In an announcement made in November 2024, Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson expressed excitement about the new routes, stating, “Dakhla will become the thirteenth airport in Ryanair’s Moroccan network, further strengthening the airline’s investment in the Kingdom.” Wilson also acknowledged the support of Moroccan authorities in facilitating this venture, emphasizing the positive impact on tourism and economic growth in the region.

However, this move has not been without controversy. The Polisario Front, advocating for Western Sahara's independence, has raised objections to European airlines operating in the region without proper authorization. A spokesperson for the Front criticized the airlines for allegedly violating international law by initiating flights to Dakhla without consulting all relevant parties.

Despite the legal complexities surrounding the territory's status, both Ryanair and Transavia stand by the legitimacy of their operations, stating compliance with aviation regulations and validation from authorities. Nevertheless, questions persist regarding the airlines' licenses, which currently authorize them to serve Morocco but not an independent Western Sahara.

With tensions escalating and legal action looming, the situation remains complex. While Morocco seeks to boost tourism in the region, the disputed status of Western Sahara casts a shadow over the airlines' operations. As the international community grapples with the ongoing deadlock concerning self-determination for Western Sahara, the future of these flight routes hangs in the balance. Stay tuned for further developments as this geopolitical debate unfolds.