CMA CGM Orders Airbus A350F

CMA CGM Cargo is accelerating the process of securing its long-term future and development in key global markets with several fleet adjustments.

Fleet Expansion Coming

The company has announced an immediate expansion of its fleet by deploying two additional Boeing 777-200F aircraft.

These planes, scheduled for delivery in June 2024, are to be deployed across Transpacific markets. CMA CGM says these markets include Hong Kong, Chicago, and Seoul.

The 777F is viewed as a more short-term solution to the ongoing demand increases. A second 777F is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2024, with a planned connection to mainland China and North America. CMA CGM notes that their partner, Atlas Air, will operate the flights.

Our expansion into the Transpacific Lane marks a turning point in the company’s history by connecting a new continent to our network and aligns with the ambition of the CMA CGM Group to offer a range of solutions to its customers. This lane opening will enable us to offer even more destinations to our customers on major routes. Today’s announcement represents a new step in the development of our business, which we aim to make global, and will take another step forward again in 2026 with the arrival of the A350F, the most environmentally friendly aircraft on the market.

Damien Mazaudier, CEO of CMA CGM AIR CARGO

These aircraft will join the existing fleet, consisting of just two Boeing 777Fs and three A330Fs. CMA CGM says these aircraft are all based out of its Paris Charles de Gaulle hub.

More Airbus A350Fs Ordered

Additionally, the cargo operator has announced Airbus A350F developments. Initially, CMA CGM ordered four Airbus A350Fs. However, now revised plans identify the total will be eight with, therefore, a new commitment for four.

CMA CGM says that the aircraft will be delivered between 2026 and 2027 with the global coverage of the type’s capabilities, meaning a whole globe is within reach.

The freight company says that while being the launch customer is a fantastic achievement, it believes the aircraft has several enhancements. These improvements include a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to competitors and its adoption of the latest technologies.

For Airbus, the A350F marks an essential stage in its development within the freight market as it attempts to better compete with Boeing. The American manufacturer has long had a stronghold over Airbus, with a better portfolio and greater reliability through its freighters.

Airbus hopes that with the A350Fs upcoming introduction, it’ll be able to compete and take market share away more adequately. The A350F is expected to directly compete with Boeing’s upcoming 777-8F, which will debut later this decade, permitting certification.