DHL Express has entered into a Crew and Maintenance agreement (CM) with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to deploy five Boeing 777 freighters.
Mr Travis Cobb, Executive Vice President Global Network Operations and Aviation, DHL Express, said: “With the deployment of five Boeing 777 freighters, we can expand our express service linking the Asia Pacific region with the Americas. Following the pandemic, we see good prospects for strong growth in trans-Pacific trade lanes. By collaborating with Singapore Airlines, we see a unique chance to establish a long-lasting relationship with a long-time partner who shares common values and operates at the highest standard.”
Based at Singapore’s Changi Airport and serving DHL’s South Asia Hub there, the freighters, which will sport a dual DHL-SIA livery, will be operated by SIA pilots on routes to the United States of America via points in North Asia. SIA will also oversee the maintenance of these aircraft.
The initial agreement is set for more than four years with the opportunity for an extension. As part of the agreement, the first aircraft delivery will be in July 2022, with the second in October 2022. The remaining three aircraft are planned for delivery throughout 2023.
Mr Lee Lik Hsin, Executive Vice President Commercial, SIA, said: “Today’s agreement builds on and strengthens the long-standing partnership between SIA and DHL. This new freighter operation will support the fast-growing e-commerce segment, in addition to other key business segments that rely on trusted express services that DHL excels in providing."
DHL Express operates over 320 dedicated aircraft across its global network of 220 countries and territories.
The Boeing 777 freighters are the world's largest, longest range, and most capable twin-engine freighters that also contribute to DHL’s sustainability goals, reducing CO2 emissions by 18% compared to the legacy Boeing 747-400s.
Singapore Airlines' cargo division operates to more than 90 destinations as part of its current network, which includes a fleet of freighters as well as the bellyhold space of the SIA and Scoot passenger aircraft. The airline recently ordered Airbus A350F freighters as part of its fleet renewal programme.
DHL Express Ordered Six Additional 777 Freighters with Boeing
DHL Express on 8th March has announced it has placed an order for six additional 777 Freighters. The purchase takes DHL Express' order book total to 28 777 Freighters since it placed its first direct order in 2018.
"With the order of six new, large widebody freighter aircraft, we continue to invest in our future and further enhance the capability and reach of our global air network. The Boeing 777 Freighter is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class and will connect DHL's global hubs in Cincinnati, Leipzig and Hong Kong as well as serving other key markets," said Geoff Kehr, senior vice president, Global Air Fleet Management, DHL Express.
DHL Express has taken delivery of 15 777 Freighters to date.
The 777 Freighter is Boeing's best-selling freighter of all time. Customers from around the world have ordered more than 300 777 Freighters since the program began in 2005.