DHL Express placed an order for an additional eight new Boeing 777 freighters marking the logistic firm's expansion of its intercontinental air network to meet customer demand in fast-growing international express shipping markets.

The 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,” says John Pearson, CEO at DHL Express.

“Fueled by globalization, digitalization 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 world's largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, the B777 supports future growth while providing outstanding reliability. Furthermore, the aircraft contribute to the committed sustainability goals due to their 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 reducing our carbon emissions by modernizing 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 9,200 km (4,970 nautical miles) and can carry a maximum payload of 102,010 kg (224,900 lbs). 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.

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. 

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