As global supply chains demand faster solutions, CMA CGM Group subsidiaries are taking distinct approaches to strengthen air cargo capabilities. Here's how different arms of the shipping giant are adapting to the "air cargo gold rush" while maintaining operational flexibility.
1. CEVA Logistics: The Hybrid Model
CMA CGM's contract logistics specialist CEVA has adopted a blended approach:
- Operating 6 dedicated Boeing 777 freighters on key Asia-Europe/US routes
- Utilizing 40% charter flights for project cargo (aerospace/energy sectors)
- Maintaining partnerships with 15+ commercial airlines for last-minute capacity
This mix allows CEVA to guarantee weekly 1,800-ton capacity while avoiding fleet overcommitment - crucial during seasonal demand shifts.
2. CMA CGM Air Cargo: The Full-Service Play
The group's dedicated air division took a bold step in 2023:
- Added 4 Airbus A350F freighters to existing Boeing 777Fs
- Established Miami as Americas hub with 12 weekly rotations
- Developed phygital solutions combining air freight with real-time CO2 tracking
"Air isn't just an alternative to sea freight anymore," notes CMA CGM Air Cargo's VP. "It's becoming a strategic pillar for time-sensitive tech and perishables."
3. Base Logistics: The Regional Specialist
CMA CGM's Asian subsidiary focuses on intra-Asia connectivity:
- Deployed 3 converted A330 freighters for Southeast Asian e-commerce flows
- Partnered with VietJet Air for belly capacity on 14 passenger routes
- Launched Ho Chi Minh City-Shenzhen "Dragon Express" dedicated service
This hyper-local strategy capitalizes on ASEAN's 8.1% annual air cargo growth (IATA 2023 data) while avoiding direct competition with trans-Pacific players.
4. The Network Effect
What makes CMA CGM's approach unique:
- Shared IT infrastructure across subsidiaries reduces duplicate systems
- Cross-selling opportunities between sea and air clients
- Collective bargaining power with airports/FBOs
An air cargo manager at a French automotive firm confirms: "We use CEVA for Europe-Mexico parts shipments, but switch to Base Logistics for urgent ASEAN deliveries. The brand consistency helps."
Why This Matters for Shippers
With air cargo demand projected to grow 4.5% annually through 2025 (Boeing Outlook), CMA CGM's multi-pronged strategy offers:
✅ Guaranteed capacity without long-term contracts
✅ Regional expertise through subsidiary specialization
✅ Seamless modal shifts via integrated sea-air solutions
