Representing a new milestone in its development as a logistics operator, the CMA CGM Group is stepping up its strategic development with the creation of a specialised airfreight division: CMA CGM Air Cargo.
It’s part of a growing trend among shipping lines to extend their services beyond the ocean freight leg to encompass a full logistics option. It’s been the clear objective of the likes of Maersk, for example, which last year integrated the Safmarine and Damco brands in order to improve end-to-end service delivery and provide its customers with a global integrated offering.
“This move into airfreight strengthens the Group’s transport and logistics business, allowing it to offer its customers a new range of comprehensive, agile and customised solutions,” says chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé.
To support the move the company is buying four 60-tonne-payload Airbus A330-200F freighter aircraft, which came into service between 2014 and 2016. With a range of 4 000 nautical miles, they will connect Europe with the rest of the world. The Group will entrust the operation of its freighter fleet to a European airline, according to a statement from the line.
“The creation of the division is in response to the growing demand from customers for agile logistics solutions. This division will launch with four Airbus A330-200F aircraft and will leverage commercial partnerships with airlines in order to deliver global coverage.”
