CMA CGM acquires Belgian airline
Carrier expands airfreight services with former partner
CMA CGM has been expanding its airfreight services since it launched in 2021. Acquisition of Air Belgium will add four more aircraft to its fleet
FRENCH carrier CMA CGM has further boosted its presence in the airfreight sector with the acquisition of Air Belgium.
The company today 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.
The move will see the Air Belgium brand maintained, and has preserved 124 jobs at the airline, including those of 72 pilots. CMA CGM will take over Air Belgium’s four cargo aircraft.
“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,” said CMA CGM air division executive vice-president Damien Mazaudier.
“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.”
The deal continues a partnership established between 2021 and 2023, during which CMA CGM air cargo worked with Air Belgium in 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.
Launched in 2016, Air Belgium originally offered passenger services. In 2023, the airline halted its passenger services and subsequently filed for judicial reorganisation.
