Maple News reports that the Government of Canada has extended its suspension of all direct flights from Morocco until October 29, 2021. Originally introduced as a 30-day public health measure set to expire on September 29, the extension is part of Canada’s effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.
Transport Canada confirmed the continuation of the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), which bans all direct commercial and private passenger flights from Morocco until 11:59 p.m. EDT on October 28. This extension reflects ongoing concerns about imported COVID-19 cases and emerging variants.
Travellers departing from Morocco who wish to enter Canada will need to take an indirect flight, transiting through a third country. They must also obtain a COVID-19 molecular test from that third country before continuing their journey to Canada. This rule applies to all travellers regardless of their vaccination status.
Under current guidelines, all international travellers entering Canada must submit required details, including vaccination and travel history, using the ArriveCAN app or website prior to arrival. To be exempt from quarantine, non-essential travellers must show proof of full vaccination using one of the Health Canada-approved vaccines—Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, or Janssen (Johnson & Johnson).
Since September 7, 2021, Canada’s borders have reopened to fully vaccinated tourists from all countries. However, even vaccinated travellers must present a negative molecular COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before their flight. Upon landing, individuals may be randomly selected for additional testing at the border.
Those who are not fully vaccinated are only permitted entry under essential purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or compassionate grounds. Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are unvaccinated are still allowed entry but must complete a mandatory home quarantine.
Maple News will continue monitoring and reporting on updates related to Canada’s border and public health policies throughout the pandemic.