By Maria Kalamatas – The Logistic News
March 21, 2025 – Global shipping and logistics giant CMA CGM has officially placed a bid to acquire Air Belgium’s cargo operations, following a court decision to revoke Air One Belgium’s takeover of the struggling airline’s freight division.
According to Aviation24.be, CMA CGM Air Cargo has submitted its proposal to the Walloon Brabant Business Court, which will review the bid on March 27. Additionally, Belgium’s Enterprise Court will evaluate the offer, which includes:
- Air Belgium’s cargo operations
- Retention of the Air Belgium name and brand
- Ownership of the airline’s four aircraft
If the bid is accepted, CMA CGM could secure a valuable expansion of its air freight business, integrating Air Belgium’s operations into its fast-growing air cargo division.
Legal Dispute Clouds the Future of Air Belgium Cargo
The bid comes as Air One Belgium, a joint venture between UK-based Air One International Holdings and Dutch firm Peso Aviation Management, is engaged in a legal battle over its failed acquisition of Air Belgium Cargo.
Initially approved in December 2024, the takeover was later revoked by the Nivelles Enterprise Court, which ruled that delays in the acquisition process rendered the deal void. The court subsequently set a final deadline of March 27 for Air Belgium to secure an alternative investor or face liquidation.
However, Air One Belgium has announced plans to appeal the ruling, expressing extreme disappointment with the decision and vowing to continue efforts to finalize its acquisition.
Air Belgium’s Financial Struggles and the Search for Stability
Air Belgium has been navigating financial instability for years. In September 2023, the airline announced it would discontinue its passenger operations, shifting focus solely to cargo and ACMI services due to mounting debts and economic difficulties.
As part of its judicial restructuring, the airline has been actively seeking investors to ensure long-term financial stability. The uncertain outcome of the current legal dispute will play a pivotal role in determining the airline’s survival or dissolution.
CMA CGM’s Air Cargo Expansion Strategy
CMA CGM entered the air cargo sector in 2022, rapidly expanding its fleet and operational network. The company currently operates:
- Four freighters (three Boeing 777Fs and one Airbus A330F)
- Two additional Boeing 777Fs expected to be delivered soon
- Eight Airbus A350Fs on order, with their entry into service now postponed to late 2027
Initially, CMA CGM Air Cargo had more modest fleet expansion plans. However, following the termination of its partnership with Air France-KLM, the company has aggressively revised its investment strategy, positioning itself as a major independent player in the global air cargo market.
What’s Next for Air Belgium Cargo?
With the March 27 deadline fast approaching, the fate of Air Belgium’s cargo division hangs in the balance. If CMA CGM’s bid is approved, it could significantly enhance its global air freight footprint, leveraging Air Belgium’s brand, fleet, and market access.
However, should Air One Belgium’s appeal succeed, it may reignite negotiations over the original acquisition deal, adding further legal and operational uncertainties to the mix.
Final Verdict Expected Soon
The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of Air Belgium Cargo. For **CMA CGM, securing this acquisition could be a strategic move to solidify its position as a dominant force in global air logistics. Meanwhile, industry stakeholders and legal observers await the court’s decision, which will shape the European cargo aviation landscape for years to come.
For more updates on aviation mergers, air cargo industry trends, and global logistics developments, stay connected with The Logistic News.
Maria Kalamatas
Senior Journalist, The Logistic News
