Boeing has kicked off the Farnborough Airshow by signing a deal to supply DHL Express with 14 Boeing 777 Freighters, with the option for an additional seven.
The first aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2019, and DHL says that while the aircraft will not increase capacity, they will significantly reduce costs, increase efficiency and reliability.
In the past DHL Express chiefly leased aircraft but says purchasing fully owned freighter aircraft will improve costs for the division.
DHL Express chief executive officer, Ken Allen says: “The acquisition of the 14 Boeing airplanes reflects a gradual replacement of our older intercontinental fleet. As the most fuel-efficient, most reliable freighter type with the best long-haul range, these aircraft will contribute to our emissions reduction targets and allow us to serve even more markets with non-stop flights.
“DHL was an early adopter of this type of aircraft for the logistics industry and took delivery of the third B777F produced by Boeing in 2009. With extensive experience operating this freighter type, it has proven to be superior in all aspects of operation making it a logical choice.”
Cross-border e-commerce is expected to grow 19.2 per cent per year, and will grow to $4.48 trillion, and DHL says investing in the 777 Freighter is a direct answer to the growing demand for global express capacity.
