DHL Express and Boeing announced that the global logistics company placed an order for eight additional new Boeing 777 freighters. The investment marks a further step in DHL Express’ expansion of its intercontinental air network to meet customer demand in fast growing international express shipping markets. First deliveries are scheduled for 2022.
“Although the current health crisis has pushed pause on several areas of life, global trade did not stand still,” said John Pearson, CEO at DHL Express.
“Fuelled by globalisation, digitalisation and the unprecedented demand of our customers during the recent peak season, our global e-commerce volume grew by more than 40% in Q4.
“With the order of eight new wide body freighter aircraft, we underline our conviction that e-commerce is an enduring megatrend. This is why we decided to act early and kick-off 2021 with this investment in our future.”
The B777 aircraft will contribute to DPDHL Group’s sustainability goals due to its fuel efficient technology reducing CO2 emissions by 18% compared to the legacy B747-400s.
“A highly efficient and reliable aviation network is key to our service capabilities enabling future growth,” says Travis Cobb EVP global network operations and aviation at DHL Express.
“We are committed to providing the highest quality and efficient services to our customers at the fastest possible transit times.
“At the same time, we are also committed to reduce our carbon emissions by modernising our fleet with the most efficient aircraft type that is available in the industry.
“The Boeing 777 fits well into our intercontinental network and perfectly complements our sustainability goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.”
The 777 Freighter is the world’s largest, longest range and most capable twin-engine freighter with a range of 9200 km (4970 nautical miles) and can carry a maximum payload of 102,010 kg. It allows DHL Express to make fewer stops and reduce associated landing fees on long-haul routes, resulting in the lowest trip cost of any large freighter.
“We remain optimistic about our growth prospects underscored by the e-commerce boom and as globalisation continues to assert its strength and relevance,” said Ken Lee, CEO of DHL Express Asia Pacific.
“In addition to bolstering the approximately EUR 60 million that we have committed to boost our air network in Asia Pacific from 2020-2022, these continued aviation investment will equally help to ensure that we have the safest and fastest deliveries in the industry.”
Preceding the new order announced, DHL Express had already taken delivery of the first ten new B777F aircraft as part of an original order of 14 aircraft made in 2018.
Boeing’s 2020 World Air Cargo Forecast anticipates significant increase in demand for new and converted freighters with a fleet growth of more than 60% over the next 20 years. This is reflected in the growing demand for cross border time definite shipments that DHL Express is experiencing.
For this reason both companies have also agreed on options and purchase rights for four additional planes.
