The European Parliament has approved the updated air accord between the EU and Morocco, excluding Western Sahara.
Despite a clear legal framework, several European airlines continue to operate flights to Western Sahara, contradicting the EU’s stance on the matter.
On July 8, 2026, the Parliament voted in favor of the revised agreement, which updates the existing accord following Croatia’s accession to the EU.
The agreement was adopted with 625 votes for, 16 against, and 20 abstentions.
Western Sahara Resource Watch (WSRW) notes that many MEPs supported the updated accord precisely because it adapts the existing agreement, sticking to the EU’s jurisprudence and repeated declarations by the Commission, without extending to Western Sahara.
However, some airlines have refused to comply with this stance, including Ryanair, which has launched flights from European airports to Dakhla in Western Sahara.
The situation raises concerns about compliance with international law and EU regulations.
