The cargo operations of Air Belgium have officially been transferred to the CMA CGM Group, a global leader in logistics and multimodal transport. This transition follows the approval of the takeover by the Business Court of Walloon Brabant in March and the recent issuance of new Belgian operating licenses by the Belgian Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA).
With the transfer complete, Air Belgium SA will be formally placed into liquidation as of 30 April 2025, marking the end of its seven-year presence in passenger and cargo airline operations. However, the cargo business will continue under CMA CGM's air freight division, ensuring continuity and stability in Belgium’s logistics sector.
Thanks to the acquisition, 124 direct jobs – including 72 pilots – have been safeguarded. The Air Belgium brand, known in the Belgian aviation landscape, will live on under the CMA CGM Group, which plans to build upon the airline’s established reputation and expertise.
Air Belgium CEO Niky Terzakis expresses pride in his team’s resilience: “Since its founding, Air Belgium has faced numerous global challenges, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine. I am extremely proud of our staff's loyalty and dedication. CMA CGM recognised this strength and is giving us the opportunity to continue this journey under a new banner.”
He also acknowledges the collaborative efforts that made the transition possible, including those from trade unions, Belgian authorities, suppliers, and customers. While he regretted the discontinuation of passenger services, Terzakis emphasizes that the cargo-focused future under CMA CGM offers promising prospects: “This is good news not just for our team, but for the broader Belgian aviation sector.”
The acquisition marks another strategic step for CMA CGM Group in strengthening its position in global air freight, while preserving valuable Belgian aviation know-how.
