Washington, D.C. (IAD) to Doha (DOH) via Casablanca (CMN)
On the Ground: I was traveling to Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi with my colleague Banu Yilmaz. After picking up Banu, who is based in New York, at the train station, we drove from Yardley, Pa., to Washington Dulles International Airport. Because the Royal Air Maroc flight to Casablanca departs late from IAD, we avoided most rush-hour traffic and had a smooth drive. Parking and check-in were straightforward, and with priority security we were through quickly and headed to the lounge.
At Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) we cleared immigration, which took a bit longer than in the U.S., then stopped by the lounge for a short break before our onward flight to Doha.
Pre-Flight: At IAD, Royal Air Maroc business-class passengers can use the Etihad lounge. We caught up on email and work while enjoying table service and sampling items from both the buffet and the menu. The comfortable seating and quiet atmosphere made it easy to relax, and I nearly nodded off while waiting for our late-night departure.
The lounge in Casablanca was quite busy when we arrived, but even a brief visit was welcome. It provided a chance to freshen up, grab a coffee and check messages between two long, seven-hour flights.
In-Flight: Royal Air Maroc’s business class on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner combines modern amenities with thoughtful cabin design. The Dreamliner features larger overhead bins, improved noise reduction and larger windows, which all add to passenger comfort.
On both legs of the journey the lie-flat seats offered about 61 inches of pitch, adjustable headrests, partitions between adjoining seats and extra storage space—ideal for sleeping on the overnight IAD–CMN segment. On the Casablanca–Doha flight I watched movies on the seatback LCD screens and appreciated the larger entertainment displays. I did notice the entertainment selections differed slightly between the two legs.
The onboard dining focuses on Moroccan and international options presented à la carte, accompanied by a full selection of Champagne, wine and spirits. Flight attendants welcomed passengers with a beverage and provided in-flight reading materials and amenity kits for business-class travelers.
Priority boarding, security and immigration processing helped streamline the airport experience at each step.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ Royal Air Maroc began nonstop service between Washington Dulles International Airport and Casablanca in September 2016, using new Boeing 787 Dreamliners on the route.
◆ Washington, D.C., became the airline’s second U.S. destination after its long-standing service to New York (JFK).
◆ On my return I had a 12-hour layover in Casablanca, which gave me time to explore the city and relax in the airport’s premium lounge before continuing my journey.