Our air cargo industry is changing in the midst of this current ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’. Innovation, digitalization, sustainability, shifting market and skills requirements are all fuelling a wave of air cargo-focused start-ups. Whether they are providing technological solutions, introducing new business models, optimizing processes, enabling operational visibility and transparency through data, or leveraging the many opportunities that are arising through these changes, one thing is certain: these start-ups are disrupting the status quo for the better. And they deserve a platform. That is why CargoForwarder Global (CFG) is introducing a new, regular feature: “On the Starting Line…”. Each month, CFG will pass the mic to an industry-relevant start-up and allow them to introduce themselves in detail.
First up, is SkyForge (SF) – a boutique consultancy founded by Jelle Declerck (JS) and Mathieu Sérafimoff (MS), who both joined the industry more than ten years ago, and over time saw the need for consultancy that bridges the gap between boardroom strategy and operational reality – one “that is grounded in real-life experience, sharp strategy, and hands-on implementation,” as they tell CFG. “In a world where air cargo players are navigating rapid change, SkyForge offers something rare: a fresh perspective with feet firmly on the ground.”
CFG: How did your start-up come by its name and who are its founders?
SF: SkyForge is co-founded by Jelle Declerck and Mathieu Sérafimoff – two long-time colleagues with a shared vision of doing consultancy differently. The name “SkyForge” reflects our mission: to shape, develop and strengthen the future of air cargo – both in the sky and on the ground. “Forge” refers to building with intent, to sharpening tools, and to crafting strong foundations. We wanted a name that signals energy, action, and resilience — not something passive or abstract.
CFG. When did the idea for your start-up emerge and how did you source your team? How big is it and how do their skills relate to your business?
JD: The idea for SkyForge took root in late 2023, during countless conversations about the disconnect we often saw between strategy and execution. Both Mathieu and I had been involved in commercial and operational transformations at scale, and we felt there was space for a consultancy that could do more than just advise. For now, we are the core team – with complementary profiles: I bring the commercial and strategic lens; Mathieu brings deep operational and regulatory expertise. Around us, we are building a flexible network of trusted collaborators.
CFG: When did you or are you planning to launch officially?
MS: We officially launched SkyForge during Air Cargo Europe (ACE) 2025, using the event as a springboard to introduce the brand, meet partners, and activate our initial projects. It was a deliberate move – to launch not in silence, but in dialogue with the industry.
CFG: Where are your headquarters located and what is your international scope?
JD: SkyForge is based in Belgium, but our scope is international. We are already active in airport and operator projects across Europe, and open to working globally where our hybrid model of strategic and operational support can add value.
CFG: What air cargo industry problem is your start-up trying to solve and why is it important?
MS: We’re tackling the gap between what gets decided in the boardroom and what happens on the ground. Too often, commercial or operational strategies falter because there’s no bridge between vision and reality. That’s where we step in – not just with advice, but with the sleeves rolled up to make sure transformation actually happens. In an industry facing digitalization, regulatory shifts, and market realignment, that follow-through is critical.
CFG: Who are your target customers?
JD: Our clients range from airports, ground handling agents, and logistics companies, to public and private stakeholders working on infrastructure, efficiency, or network growth. What they share is a need for alignment between strategy and execution – and that’s where we bring the most value. Our model is flexible by design: we tailor our involvement to the complexity of the challenge and the maturity of the organization.
CFG: What market research did you use to determine your company’s mission? What did it show?
MS: Our research came from years of lived experience. We’ve seen where strategies fail, where teams lose alignment, and where external consultants often fall short. We also spent months speaking with industry peers, stakeholders, and decision-makers – all of whom confirmed the need for consultancy that’s both credible and embedded. The mission became clear: help the sector evolve, without losing grip on the realities that drive day-to-day performance.
CFG: Who are your main competitors and what is your unique value proposition?
JD: We don’t see ourselves as competing directly with traditional consultancies – in fact, we often complement them. While many firms focus on high-level strategy or niche expertise, SkyForge excels at connecting the dots between vision and execution. We bring industry insight, operational credibility, and the ability to mobilize action on the ground. That makes us a valuable partner – whether embedded within a larger transformation project or supporting clients directly. Our size also works to our advantage: we’re agile, focused, and fully hands-on.
CFG: What have been your greatest achievements or challenges so far?
MS: Launching SkyForge at ACE 2025 and immediately securing international opportunities was a major milestone. The challenge, as with any start-up, is managing momentum while delivering at a high level from day one. We’re learning fast, staying flexible, and focusing on building trust with every assignment.
CFG: What are the next steps for your company?
JD: We’re finalizing our website and expanding our partner network. More importantly, we’re actively scaling our client base through high-impact projects and referrals. As we grow, we want to stay true to our hands-on DNA – growing smart, not just fast.
CFG: How would you describe your company culture in just one word?
MS: Committed.
To the work, to the people, and to making a real difference in a sector we know and love.
CFG: Where can readers find out more about you?
JD: Our website www.sky-forge.aero will go live soon. In the meantime, we welcome conversations and connections via LinkedIn or directly by email. We’re always happy to talk – whether it’s about collaboration or just sharing ideas over a coffee.Thank you, Jelle Declerck and Mathieu Sérafimoff, for these insights into your start-up, and CargoForwarder Global wishes you every success going forward.
