DHL Global Forwarding, which is part of the DHL Group and specializes in air and ocean freight, is looking to increase its dedicated air capacity between Asia and Europe. This will be achieved through the introduction of new weekly flights that will connect the primary logistics centers of Shanghai-Leipzig and Liège-Hong Kong. The new service offering highlights the synergy between DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express, thereby bolstering the Group’s capacity to cater to the burgeoning Asia-Europe trade routes.
Coinciding with the initiation of the summer flight schedule, DHL Global Forwarding will commence weekly Boeing 777F rotations. These rotations will connect Shanghai-Leipzig and Hong Kong-Liège, facilitating further distribution across Europe. These flights will significantly augment the uplift available for DHL Global Forwarding’s client base.
Henk Venema, the Global Head of Air Freight at DHL Global Forwarding, stated that the expansion of their company’s controlled capacity on the Asia-Europe route underscores their commitment to delivering reliability, speed, and resilience for their clients. He mentioned that the demand on this specific trade lane is escalating at a remarkable rate, and bolstering their network will allow them to remain a step ahead of their customer’s needs.
Leipzig was selected as it is a pivotal DHL Express aviation hub and boasts robust infrastructure for operational processing. It will act as a crucial gateway for shipments received from Shanghai. This move aligns with DHL’s larger strategy of utilizing its European hubs to optimize efficiency and cater to demand spikes during high season.
The Liège-Hong Kong route will include a stop in Tel Aviv, which is crucial in maintaining market support and ensuring consistent service for clients. In collaboration with the operating airline partner, the flight may also accommodate limited cargo loading or offloading if necessary. The return trip from Hong Kong will feed directly into DHL’s European distribution network.
DHL is also planning to make further improvements to its intercontinental air network, alongside the new Asia-Europe capacities. This includes the planned increase in transpacific uplift between Southeast Asia and the United States later this year.
Travis Cobb, EVP Global Operations and Aviation at DHL Express, commented on the cross-divisional collaboration, stating that it exemplifies their commitment to facilitating global trade flows. This collaboration between DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express will allow customers to capitalize on their combined strength as the world’s premier logistics provider.
By offering additional flight capacities, DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express are closely aligning to provide customers with enhanced reliability, flexibility, and global reach across the supply chain. Leveraging shared assets and operational strengths within DHL, the divisions continuously deliver integrated solutions that complement each other.
Why is DHL Global Forwarding expanding its air capacity between Asia and Europe?
DHL Global Forwarding is expanding its dedicated air capacity to cater to the increasing demand on the Asia-Europe trade lanes and to enhance the Group’s ability to serve this rapidly growing market.
What role will Leipzig play in DHL’s expanded services?
Leipzig will serve as a key gateway for shipments arriving from Shanghai, leveraging its status as a major DHL Express aviation hub with a strong operational processing infrastructure.
How is DHL working to enhance its intercontinental air network?
In addition to the new Asia-Europe capacities, DHL is preparing further enhancements across its intercontinental air network. Plans include increased transpacific uplift between Southeast Asia and the United States later in the year.
