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The CMA CGM Group has signed a preliminary agreement to acquire Crystal Aero Solutions, a company specializing in aircraft maintenance services. This acquisition aims to strengthen the operational and maintenance capabilities of CMA CGM AIR CARGO.
Crystal Aero Solutions is based at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and also operates in Belgium (Brussels and Liège). The company focuses on line and light maintenance, which is crucial for the operational availability of aircraft. It supports both airlines and third-party companies and conducts international operations for engine support, particularly in Africa and Asia. Crystal Aero Solutions has been collaborating with CMA CGM AIR CARGO since 2024 and is already contributing to the maintenance of the fleet.
Strategic expansion in air freight
The acquisition of Crystal Aero Solutions is part of the CMA CGM Group’s strategy to further expand its air freight activities. By integrating the company, the group will be able to leverage recognized expertise in aircraft maintenance to support the growth of CMA CGM AIR CARGO and enhance the operational availability of the fleet. Additionally, the presence at several strategic locations in Europe will be strengthened. The completion of the transaction will occur after the legally required information and consultation process with employees.
The acquisition opens up new development opportunities for Crystal Aero Solutions, allowing it to benefit from the international resources and scaling of the CMA CGM Group. The company will gain access to new business opportunities and markets and aims to solidify its position among the leading providers of aircraft maintenance services. Crystal Aero Solutions will continue to operate as an independent maintenance service provider and will further develop its activities for all customers, including airlines and third-party companies. The current management will remain in charge and will support the new growth phase.
Damien Mazaudier, Senior Vice President of the aviation division of the CMA CGM Group, commented on the transaction:
“This step marks a new chapter in the development of our air freight activities. With the growth of our fleet, we can draw on the expertise and experience of the teams at Crystal Aero Solutions to support our operations at several strategic locations and promote the continuous growth of CMA CGM AIR CARGO. We are also pleased to support the growth of Crystal Aero Solutions while maintaining its independence as a service provider for all customers.”
Expansion of air freight offerings
CMA CGM AIR CARGO was launched in March 2021 and represents another step in the implementation of the CMA CGM Group’s strategy to provide a comprehensive range of sea, land, air, and logistics solutions. This strategy enables the group to offer tailored multimodal solutions up to the last mile. Currently, the CMA CGM Group operates a fleet of eight cargo aircraft, including five Boeing 777F, one Airbus A330F, and two Boeing 747F. Starting in 2027, the fleet will be expanded with the delivery of eight Airbus A350F. These aircraft operate from strategic hubs in France, the USA, and Belgium, ensuring optimal connectivity to key international air freight routes.
