The CMA CGM Group has announced the transfer of assets from Air Belgium, following the approval by the Brabant Wallon Commercial Court of its binding offer for the takeover of Air Belgium’s cargo operations and the conclusion of the asset transfer agreement with the liquidator.
This operation ensures the preservation of the Air Belgium brand, employment, and the expertise of the Belgian teams while maintaining a robust air cargo network that addresses market demands. This move aligns with the CMA CGM Group’s strategy to offer European clients comprehensive and flexible logistics solutions amid global logistical challenges.
Preserving jobs and the brand to build a high-performing offering
With this acquisition, CMA CGM sustainably preserves 124 skilled positions, including 72 pilots and 52 operational and support staff. The expertise of these teams is a key asset in developing a high-performing service that meets market expectations.
The Group has also chosen to retain the Air Belgium brand, an iconic name in the Belgian aviation landscape, combining local expertise with international standards in air cargo transport.
Strengthening CMA CGM Group’s air fleet to build tailored solutions
This acquisition immediately enhances CMA CGM Group’s air freight capabilities by adding Air Belgium’s aircraft capacity. Operated from Belgium, these aircraft will enable the creation of tailored solutions for forwarders, shippers, and the broader logistics ecosystem.
Damien MAZAUDIER, Executive Vice President of the Air Division at CMA CGM Group, stated: “The acquisition of Air Belgium marks an important step in the expansion of the CMA CGM Group’s air freight operations in Europe and worldwide. It immediately strengthens our air capacity while addressing current logistical challenges. By preserving skilled jobs and accelerating the development of our network, this operation demonstrates our commitment to our customers and our ability to anticipate market evolutions.”
Accelerating the expansion of the Group’s air division in Europe and worldwide
This acquisition strengthens the Group’s presence in Europe and worldwide, complementing CMA CGM AIR CARGO operations at Paris-Charles de Gaulle. Currently, CMA CGM AIR CARGO operates regular services with two Boeing 777F aircraft to Hong Kong and Shanghai and one Airbus A330F to Zhengzhou.
This acquisition continues the partnership established between 2021 and 2023, during which CMA CGM AIR CARGO entrusted Air Belgium with operating its four Airbus A330F aircraft from Liège hub before obtaining its own French air operator certificate and establishing operations at Paris-Charles de Gaulle.
Continuing development in the United States with a hub in Chicago
Alongside European expansion, CMA CGM Group has established an air freight hub in Chicago. This hub currently hosts two Boeing 777F aircraft operated by Atlas Air under the CMA CGM AIR CARGO brand, with three additional aircraft to be added soon. These planes will strengthen the Group’s presence on transpacific routes and support the expansion of its cargo activities in the American market.
CMA CGM Group operates an air cargo fleet of 9 aircraft: four Boeing 777Fs, three Airbus A330Fs, and two Boeing 747Fs. The fleet will soon be reinforced by an additional Boeing 777F and further expanded from 2027 onward with the arrival of eight Airbus A350Fs.
These aircraft operate from strategic hubs in France, the United States, and Belgium, ensuring optimal connectivity across key global air cargo routes.
