After exiting the passenger market, Air Belgium has now retired its entire Airbus fleet to operate solely with two Boeing 747-8F freighters. This marks a major strategic shift toward focusing on cargo and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services.
The move follows the airline’s financial difficulties and the suspension of scheduled passenger flights in late 2023. With the retirement of the two remaining A330-200 freighters, its two 747-8Fs operated in partnership with Chinese logistics firm Hongyuan Group are now central to its streamlined, long-haul freight business.
In April 2025, Air Belgium entered judicial liquidation and was acquired by French logistics giant CMA CGM, which aims to expand the airline’s cargo operations. Despite the ownership change, Air Belgium retains its Belgian base and brand.
With CMA CGM’s backing, Air Belgium plans to grow its cargo fleet and ACMI services, capitalising on global demand for air freight. The fleet consolidation enhances operational efficiency and positions the airline as a competitive force in European cargo aviation.