CMA CGM receives new aircraft and launches first Transpacific service

The delivery of this new aircraft, operated by Atlas Air, is expected to play an important role in the expansion of the CMA CGM Air Cargo network on a strategic route, serving airports like Hong Kong, Chicago, and Seoul.

The first commercial flight took place on 25 August, connecting Hong Kong (HKG) to Chicago (ORD) with a technical stop in Anchorage (ANC). On the westbound leg, the aircraft operates from Chicago (ORD) to Hong Kong (HKG), via Seoul (ICN). A second B777-200F will be received in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will also be deployed on a transpacific route, connecting mainland China to North America. With the deployment of these two Boeing aircraft, CMA CGM Air Cargo will offer a total of seven frequencies per week on the transpacific. In 2025, the French carrier will receive a third aircraft.

Since 2022, two Boeing 777-200F aircrafts operated by CMA CGM Air Cargo, based at the Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) hub, have been serving routes between Europe and Greater China, with five flights per week to Hong Kong and four flights per week to Shanghai.

The B777-200F is the world’s largest, longest range, and most capable twin-engine freighter. Known for its high reliability, fuel efficiency, and lower maintenance and operating costs, this aircraft boasts a range of 9,200 km (4,970 nautical miles) and can carry a maximum payload of 103 tonnes (226,000 pounds). The 777 Freighter delivers the most economical trip cost of all large freighters. "The launching of this new route between Chicago and Hong Kong is a strategic milestone in the development of CMA CGM Air Cargo," pointed out Damien Mazaudier, CEO of CMA CGM Air Cargo.

"We are very proud to extend our reach to the United States. 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 airfreight, in line with the CMA CGM Group's ambitions," added Mazaudier.