The French transport and logistics group CMA CGM has signed a preliminary agreement to acquire Crystal Aero Solutions, a company specializing in aircraft maintenance. The deal aims to strengthen the operational and service capabilities of the CMA CGM AIR CARGO division, which is actively expanding its presence in the global air freight market. Based at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, Crystal Aero Solutions also operates in Brussels and Liège, providing line and light maintenance services for aircraft.
The company has been collaborating with CMA CGM AIR CARGO since 2024, participating in the maintenance of its fleet. Crystal Aero Solutions serves both airlines and third-party operators and supports international engine maintenance projects, including in Africa and Asia. CMA CGM notes that integrating the company will enhance fleet operational readiness, strengthen its presence at key European aviation hubs, and create a foundation for further growth in the air cargo business.
The transaction is part of CMA CGM’s long-term strategy to develop multimodal logistics, combining sea, land, air, and warehousing solutions. Since its launch in 2021, CMA CGM AIR CARGO has actively expanded its fleet, which currently comprises eight freighters: five Boeing 777Fs, one Airbus A330F, and two Boeing 747Fs. Starting in 2027, the company plans to take delivery of eight new Airbus A350Fs, significantly boosting its global capacity. Meanwhile, Crystal Aero Solutions will retain its independent status in the maintenance market and continue serving all its clients, including third-party airlines.