CMA CGM AIR CARGO has launched its first transpacific service, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. On 25AUG24, the inaugural commercial flight connected Hong Kong (HKG) to Chicago (ORD), with a technical stop in Anchorage (ANC). The route is served by a newly delivered Boeing 777-200F, which began operations on 18AUG24. This addition is part of CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s efforts to strengthen its network and support the CMA CGM Group’s goal of offering a comprehensive range of solutions to its clients.
The new B777-200F freighter, operated by Atlas Air, will enhance CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s capacity on strategic routes between Asia and North America. While the service connects Hong Kong to Chicago on the eastbound, the return operates from Chicago via Seoul (ICN) to Hong Kong. The introduction of this aircraft marks the beginning of further developments in the United States.
CMA CGM AIR CARGO plans to expand its fleet with two more B777-200F aircraft in the coming months. A second freighter will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will operate another transpacific route connecting mainland China to North America, providing customers with seven frequencies per week. A third aircraft is expected to join the fleet in 2025, further increasing capacity and reach.
For the past two years, CMA CGM AIR CARGO has operated two Boeing 777-200F aircraft based at Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), serving routes between Europe and Greater China, including five weekly flights to Hong Kong and four to Shanghai. The B777-200F is renowned for its capacity, range, fuel efficiency, and lower operating costs, making it a highly economical choice for long-haul freight operations.
Damien Mazaudier, CEO of CMA CGM AIR CARGO, commented: “The launching of this new route between Chicago and Hong Kong is a strategic milestone in the development of CMA CGM AIR CARGO. We are very proud to extend CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s reach to the United States, a strategic country for the Group. This opening comes with the delivery of a third B777 Freighter, a very efficient long-range aircraft that will allow us to serve our customers on new routes across the Pacific and to respond to dynamic market conditions. This new asset also plays a key role in contributing to greater sustainability in air freight, in line with the CMA CGM Group’s ambitions.”
