• Gradual replacement of older aircraft by most fuel-efficient and technically reliable freighter type airplanes
• Options for delivery of additional seven planes to support cross-border e-commerce business as a profitable growth driver for DHL Express.

DHL Express has placed an order for 14 Boeing 777 Freighters, which also includes options and purchase rights for 7 additional aircraft. The delivery of the first four planes is expected to be completed in 2019.

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.

Expanding cross-border e-commerce sales will grow to $4.48 trillion by 2021, which means a growth of 19.2 per cent per year. DHL’s investment in the 777 Freighters is a direct answer to the growing demand for global express capacity. Being the largest twin-engine cargo airplanes in the world, Boeing’s 777 Freighters are capable of flying 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometers) with a cargo load of 102 tons.

Currently, DHL Express operates over 260 dedicated aircraft with 17 partner airlines on over 600 daily flights across 220 countries and territories.