In 1956 the end of the Spanish protectorate over northern Morocco placed the airport outside of control from Spain, although some investment from Spain was done in the aerodrome until 1958. Limited access to the airport was given to Melilla by secured bus until 1967.
In 1956, the loss of Spanish control over northern Morocco led to the airport being outside of Spanish jurisdiction, and although some investment from Spain continued until 1958, access remained restricted for Melilla via a secure bus route until 1967.