Signing of a preliminary agreement with a view to acquiring Crystal Aero Solutions, a provider of aircraft maintenance services.- Strengthening CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s operational and maintenance capabilities.
Strategic move strengthens CMA CGM AIR CARGO’s aircraft maintenance expertise and supports long-term fleet expansion across global air freight markets
The CMA CGM Group has taken another significant step in strengthening its integrated air cargo operations with the signing of a preliminary agreement to acquire Crystal Aero Solutions, a specialised aircraft maintenance provider serving both cargo and passenger airlines.
The proposed acquisition reflects CMA CGM Group’s continued commitment to expanding its air freight capabilities and enhancing the operational resilience of CMA CGM AIR CARGO as the carrier prepares for future fleet growth.
Headquartered at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, with additional operations in Brussels and Liège, Crystal Aero Solutions is recognised for its expertise in line maintenance and light maintenance services—critical functions that ensure aircraft availability, reliability, and operational efficiency. The company provides maintenance support not only to airlines but also to third-party operators, while its specialised teams undertake international engine support missions, particularly across Africa and Asia.
Crystal Aero Solutions has already established a close working relationship with CMA CGM AIR CARGO, having supported the maintenance of the airline’s fleet since 2024. Bringing the company into the Group would provide CMA CGM with direct access to specialised technical expertise, enabling improved fleet availability, greater operational control, and stronger maintenance capabilities across key European aviation hubs.
The transaction remains subject to the completion of the legally required employee information and consultation procedures.
New Growth Opportunities for Crystal Aero Solutions
Under the proposed acquisition, Crystal Aero Solutions is expected to enter a new phase of development by leveraging the global scale, financial strength, and extensive logistics ecosystem of the CMA CGM Group.
The maintenance specialist will continue operating as an independent aircraft maintenance services provider, maintaining its commitment to serving its existing customer base, including airlines and third-party aviation operators. The company’s current management team will remain in place to guide its future growth strategy while benefiting from expanded business opportunities, operational synergies, and access to new international markets.
Damien Mazaudier, Senior Vice President of the Air Division of the CMA CGM Group, highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement.
“This transaction marks a new milestone in the development of our air freight activities. As our fleet continues to grow, we will be able to rely on the expertise and know-how of Crystal Aero Solutions’ teams to support our operations across several strategic platforms and support the continued growth of CMA CGM AIR CARGO,” he said.
“We are also pleased to support the continued growth of Crystal Aero Solutions while preserving its position as an independent provider serving all of its customers.”
Strengthening a Fully Integrated Multimodal Logistics Network
The acquisition aligns with CMA CGM Group’s broader strategy of developing an end-to-end logistics platform that combines maritime, land, air, and last-mile delivery services. Since the launch of CMA CGM AIR CARGO in March 2021, the Group has steadily expanded its presence in the global air freight market, providing customers with comprehensive multimodal transport solutions.
CMA CGM AIR CARGO currently operates a fleet of eight freighter aircraft, comprising five Boeing 777F aircraft, one Airbus A330F, and two Boeing 747 freighters. The carrier’s expansion plans include the addition of eight next-generation Airbus A350F freighters from 2027, significantly increasing its long-term cargo capacity and operational reach.
Operating from strategic hubs in France, Belgium, and the United States, CMA CGM AIR CARGO connects major international trade lanes and strengthens the Group’s ability to offer flexible and reliable transport solutions across global supply chains.
The planned acquisition of Crystal Aero Solutions represents a strategic investment in technical expertise and operational self-sufficiency, reinforcing CMA CGM Group’s ambition to build a robust, fully integrated air cargo business capable of supporting the evolving demands of global commerce.
