Maersk Air Cargo, the all-cargo airline unit of integrated shipping major A.P. Moller–Maersk, has decided to terminate its air transport contract with U.S.-based operator Amerijet, citing a strategic shift away from Boeing 767-300 freighters in favor of more efficient Boeing 777 aircraft for trans-Pacific operations.
According to an internal letter sent to employees by Joseph Batten, Senior Director of Flight Operations at Amerijet, Maersk Air Cargo will cease all outsourced flight operations with Amerijet effective February 28, one month ahead of the contract’s scheduled expiration on March 26.
The move represents a significant impact on Amerijet’s operations, as the Maersk contract accounted for approximately 30% of the carrier’s total flight hours. As a result, Amerijet plans to furlough around 35 pilots, nearly 20% of its pilot workforce, by the end of next month.
“This decision was not made lightly,” Batten said in the letter. “We recognize the talent, dedication, and passion of our crew members, and we understand the uncertainty and impact this creates. Ultimately, this move is necessary to ensure the long-term viability of our organization.”
Sources familiar with the matter said Maersk has opted to discontinue Boeing 767 operations between Asia and the United States, determining that the aircraft are not ideally suited for long-haul trans-Pacific routes. Maersk is reportedly planning to sell the three Boeing 767-300 freighters currently sub-leased to Amerijet.
Industry sources indicate that Amazon, which operates a large fleet of Boeing 767-300 cargo aircraft through partner airlines, is expected to acquire the Maersk aircraft. Unlike most 767 freighters in the market—which are converted from passenger aircraft—the Maersk jets are factory-built freighters, giving them longer remaining service life and higher market value.
Amerijet had prior notice of the impending exit. Maersk informed the carrier in September that it would not renew the contract beyond March 2026.
Since late 2022, Amerijet has provided pilots and routine maintenance services for Maersk Air Cargo’s network, operating scheduled flights from China and South Korea to Maersk’s U.S. cargo hubs at Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) and Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) in South Carolina, using aircraft supplied by Maersk.
The development underscores Maersk’s ongoing efforts to optimize its air cargo operations amid changing market conditions and a broader focus on fleet efficiency.
