DHL Express has placed an order for 14 Boeing 777 Freighters at the Farnborough International Airshow.

The agreement also includes purchase rights for seven additional 777Fs.

“We are delighted to announce the acquisition of 14 new 777 Freighters as we renew part of our long-haul fleet with this best-in-class fuel-efficient freighter type that will make a significant step towards DHL’s zero-emissions target by 2050,” said Charlie Dobbie [second from right in photo], executive president of global network operations and aviation at DHL Express.

The first four planes are expected to be delivered in 2019.

While DHL Express in the past has mainly been leasing aircraft to operate its global network on the routes, the purchase of fully owned freighter aircraft will improve the cost position of the DHL Express division going forward.

DHL said that, with cross-border e-commerce sales predicted to grow to US$4.48 trillion by 2021 and representing a growth of 19.2% per year, its investment in the 777Fs is a direct answer to the growing demand for global express capacity.

 “The acquisition of the 14 Boeing airplanes reflects a gradual replacement of our older intercontinental fleet,” said Ken Allen [third from right in photo], CEO of DHL Express. “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 777F 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.”

The new aircraft will reduce CO2 emissions by 18% compared to the aircraft being replaced, contributing to DHL’s target of reducing all logistics-related emissions to zero by the year 2050.

DHL Express already operates over 260 dedicated freighters with 17 partner airlines on over 600 daily flights across 220 countries and territories. The fleet currently includes 777Fs operated by Aerologic and Southern Air.

"The 777 Freighter is an airplane perfectly suited to DHL’s needs, offering an outstanding payload capability, with incredible range to service its extensive intercontinental network and unmatched reliability,” said Kevin McAllister [third from left in photo], president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

The 777F is the world’s largest twin-engine cargo airplane and is capable of flying 4,900 nautical miles with a cargo load of 102 tonnes.