In a development signaling a potential shift for global trade routes, the CMA CGM Benjamin Franklin has become the first Ultra Large Container Vessel (ULCV) to cross the Red Sea in almost two years.

The 17,859-TEU ship, operated by French carrier CMA CGM, is currently en route to Asia after originally completing its westbound loop around the Cape of Good Hope.

Vessel-tracking data confirms it passed through the Suez Canal before its AIS transponder went offline for six days – a precaution many interpret as a safeguard against possible Houthi attacks in the region.

The ship’s tracking signal resumed on November 7th as it emerged from the Gulf of Aden, confirming that it had navigated safely through the most volatile stretch of its journey. The vessel has since crossed the Arabian Sea and is expected to dock at Port Klang, Malaysia, on November 14th.

The vessel’s sister ship, CMA CGM Zheng He, has since completed its own passage through the Red Sea, with further CMA CGM vessels believed to be enroute to the region – including at least one heading westbound from Asia to Europe.

CMA CGM’s renewed use of the Red Sea marks a noteworthy strategic pivot after months of routing around southern Africa, a detour widely adopted by major carriers since early 2024 amid persistent threats in the area.

Despite the recent ceasefire in Gaza, most shipping lines had indicated they would continue to avoid the Red Sea corridor.

Whether CMA CGM’s move will spark a broader industry return to the traditional Asia–Europe route remains unclear. For now, all eyes are on how competitors respond to this early test of restored confidence in one of the world’s most vital maritime arteries. MultiFreight is monitoring developments closely.