CMA CGM Air Cargo has announced the launch of transpacific services to the US, following the end of its partnership with Air France-KLM at the end of March. Regulatory issues prevented the partnership from serving the US, leading to the decision to go solo. The shipping line will connect Asia to North America starting this summer, using an Atlas Air-operated, CMA CGM-owned 777-200F that will be delivered in June. Additional aircraft will arrive in the fourth quarter and early next year.
The first route will be from Hong Kong to Anchorage, Chicago, Seoul, and back to Hong Kong, while the second route will fly from mainland China to North America. Commercial responsibility for the flights lies with CMA, which will operate a hybrid sales model with the help of its GSSA, ECS. The company has also ordered eight A350Fs, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026.
CMA CGM Air Cargo emphasizes its in-house capabilities and independence, highlighting its expertise in regular flights, charter flights, and chartering for third-party companies. The airline is expected to bring in expertise from Bolloré following the integration of an acquisition, which saw the departure of Peter Penseel for Delta Cargo.
Customers for the transpacific flights will include CMA-owned companies Ceva and Bolloré. Despite concerns from forwarders about information sharing between the airline and its forwarding partners, CMA maintains that this does not occur. CEO Damien Mazaudier sees the expansion into the transpacific market as a significant milestone for the company, aligning with the CMA CGM group’s goal to offer a wide range of solutions to its customers. The introduction of the A350F in 2026 is seen as a step towards more environmentally friendly operations.
