**EasyJet expands its network with year-round flights from Lille and Strasbourg to Marrakech** EasyJet has announced the launch of two new direct routes from Lille-Lesquin and Strasbourg-Entzheim to Marrakech-Menara, operated year-round starting May 3, 2026. Each route will run twice weekly: Lille on Wednesdays and Sundays, Strasbourg on Thursdays and Sundays, with a flight time of approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Fares start at €60 one-way from Lille and €50 from Strasbourg, including taxes and fees but excluding baggage supplements. This move directly competes with Volotea on both routes. **Strategic importance for easyJet and Morocco** These new routes are part of easyJet's broader strategy to strengthen its Marrakech base, which now serves at least 24 European destinations, including Hamburg, Lille, and Strasbourg, with over 50 routes across Morocco. For Morocco, this aligns with its goal to enhance connectivity with Europe, particularly France, which accounts for about 29% of tourist arrivals. The year-round operation, dubbed "four seasons" routes, ensures consistent traffic beyond the summer peak, supporting the local tourism industry. **Relevance for ATPL and ATC students** For ATPL students, this expansion illustrates how low-cost carriers (LCCs) like easyJet use seasonal and year-round route planning to optimize fleet utilization and base operations. Understanding such network strategies is crucial for flight planning, fuel management, and operational decision-making. ATC students can analyze the impact on airspace capacity and slot coordination at airports like Marrakech-Menara, which handles increasing traffic from European LCCs. The competition with Volotea also highlights the dynamics of route profitability and market share in the aviation industry. **Tourism and operational insights** Marrakech remains a top leisure destination for French travelers, known for its medina, palaces, and year-round sunshine. EasyJet holidays offers packages including flights, 23 kg checked baggage, and transfers, with deposits from €75 per person. This integrated approach—combining flight and holiday services—is a growing trend among LCCs, affecting how airlines manage ancillary revenue and customer experience. For students, this case study demonstrates the interplay between airline network planning, tourism demand, and operational logistics in a competitive market.