French logistics giant CMA CGM Group has unveiled bold plans to expand its presence in the United States market through a substantial increase in its air cargo capacity. Part of this strategy includes creating a new air cargo hub at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), which is a critical element of a broader $20 billion investment initiative aimed at enhancing the company’s logistics infrastructure across the United States. Scheduled for completion by 2030, this expansion underscores the significant importance of the U.S. market to CMA CGM, reflecting its longstanding 35-year history in the region.
Expanding Air Cargo Fleet
Central to CMA CGM’s U.S. expansion is the reinforcement of its air cargo fleet. The company plans to incorporate new Boeing 777F freighters, with two more set to join the fleet by 2025. This addition will result in a total of five 777F freighters stationed at Chicago O’Hare. The strategic positioning of these aircraft aims to strengthen trade links between the United States, Asia, and Europe, enhancing the company’s capabilities to meet growing global logistics demands.
Founded in March 2021, CMA CGM Air Cargo has rapidly expanded its fleet, initially starting with two former Qatar Airways Airbus A330-200Fs and quickly including more powerful Boeing 777Fs. Alongside the anticipated 777F deliveries in 2025, the company has also doubled its order of Airbus A350Fs, with a total of eight expected by April 2024. This expansion reflects CMA CGM’s focus on boosting its air cargo capabilities, increasing its abilities to handle more freight and offer a broader range of logistics solutions.
The strategic investment in expanding its air cargo fleet is intended to reinforce CMA CGM’s role as a key player in global logistics. Not only does this investment demonstrate the company’s commitment to meeting rising demand, but it also indicates a clear strategy to leverage cutting-edge technology to improve efficiency. With international logistics facing increasing complexities and the need for rapid, reliable transportation options, expanding the air cargo fleet allows CMA CGM to offer competitive, timely service for cross-global freight movements.
Strategic Air Cargo Hub in Chicago
The construction of an air cargo center in Chicago is a significant step in CMA CGM Air Cargo’s North American operations. Chicago’s central positioning among key U.S. economic regions makes it a crucial hub for international cargo traffic. The stationing of five 777Fs at this new hub is expected to facilitate the establishment of new routes to Asia and Europe while optimizing existing routes, thus enhancing overall efficiency.
This multi-billion dollar investment was officially announced during a meeting between CMA CGM’s CEO, Rodolphe Saadé, and then U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on March 6, 2025. Saadé emphasized the importance of this expansion as pivotal for developing the company’s logistics capabilities and strengthening trade relations between the United States and the global economy. By situating a major hub in Chicago, a strategic midpoint in American trade routes, CMA CGM positions itself to handle a significant portion of the cargo traffic flowing through the country.
The central positioning of the new hub allows for streamlined operations, reducing transit times and improving the reliability of deliveries. This strategic presence in a key location gives CMA CGM the ability to channel a large volume of freight through one of the busiest cargo airports in the world. As air freight becomes increasingly important for just-in-time delivery demands and other time-sensitive logistics, this new hub represents a critical piece of infrastructure that will support and enhance CMA CGM’s operations.
Broader Maritime and Logistics Expansion
In addition to the air freight expansion, CMA CGM has significant plans to modernize its maritime infrastructure. This includes expanding several major U.S. ports and establishing new logistics centers designed to improve supply chain efficiency. With over five million containers transported annually to and from the U.S., and more than 15,000 employees across 40 states, CMA CGM is well-positioned to leverage this growth. The scope of these plans illustrates a comprehensive approach to enhancing the company’s logistical capabilities across all modern freight transport mediums, solidifying its market presence.
The logistics sector in the United States is experiencing a transformative period, driven by increasing trade flows between North America, Asia, and Europe. Rising demand for fast and reliable supply chains has led many large companies to invest in modern infrastructure and technologies. CMA CGM’s expansion into the air cargo business aligns with these trends, promising enhanced capabilities to meet international cargo demands. With plans to invest in port expansions, state-of-the-art warehouses, and other logistical improvements, the company is setting the stage for seamless, efficient operations across both maritime and air freight sectors.
Beyond just the technical upgrades, CMA CGM’s investment guarantees robust job creation and regional economic growth, reflecting broader benefits to the U.S. economy. The significant financial commitment to modernizing American logistics will drive employment, spur innovation, and boost local economies across multiple states. This combined approach of enhancing both air and maritime logistics places CMA CGM in a strong position to address the dynamic needs of global trade.
Global Competitive Landscape
French logistics giant CMA CGM Group has announced ambitious plans to significantly expand its footprint in the United States by bolstering its air cargo capacity. Central to this strategy is the establishment of a new air cargo hub at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This hub is a key component of a broader $20 billion investment effort designed to enhance the company’s logistics infrastructure throughout the United States. Scheduled for completion by 2030, this expansion highlights the critical importance of the U.S. market to CMA CGM, showcasing the value of their 35-year presence in the region. With this bold move, CMA CGM aims to fortify its position in the competitive logistics sector, leveraging the strategic location of Chicago O’Hare International Airport to streamline operations and improve service efficiency. This initiative not only marks a significant milestone for the company but also underscores their commitment to growth and adaptation in a rapidly evolving industry.
