Royal Air Maroc Applies Travel Restrictions After New US Health Measures

Rabat – Royal Air Maroc (RAM) announced new travel restrictions in line with health measures introduced by US authorities.

In a statement earlier this week, Royal Air Maroc said passengers who have stayed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within 21 days before arriving in the US are not allowed on Royal Air Maroc flights bound for the US.

“Certain exceptions may apply in accordance with U.S. authority guidelines,” Royal Air Maroc said in a statement, noting that eligible passengers may be required to enter the US through designated airports and undergo enhanced health screening upon arrival.

The airline urged affected passengers to verify their travel eligibility before departure.

The statement came amid concerns about the outbreak of Ebola cases in African countries, including the DRC and Uganda.

The DRC confirmed 210 cases and 17 confirmed deaths, alongside 349 suspected cases. Meanwhile, Uganda confirmed nine cases, one confirmed death, and one probable case.

On May 18, the CDC announced enhanced travel screening and entry restrictions, in addition to public health measures, to prevent Ebola from entering the US amid these concerns.

“Affected air passengers from the DRC, South Sudan, and Uganda will have their air travel rerouted to arrive at Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Airlines will work directly with affected travelers to rebook flights,” the CDC announced.

Ebola causes internal and external bleeding, organ damage, and high fever. It can be transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals.

African health leaders have agreed to boost regional coordination against the Ebola outbreak affecting Uganda and Congo. They have warned that 10 other African countries could also be at risk.