DHL to modernise European fleet with 13 converted planes
DHL Express has invested in new aircraft as it looks to modernise its European air fleet. In a bid to increase “efficiency and reduce emissions”, the operator purchased 13 Airbus A300-600 passenger planes.
These aircraft will be converted to freighter configuration by EADS Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, Germany.
DHL Express confirmed that the converted planes will be integrated fully into its European network by early 2013, replacing the older A300B4-200 model, which is reaching retirement age.
Bryan Jamison, managing director network operations, Europe, DHL Express, said: “The A300-600 is a very attractive mid-range aircraft and the perfect fit for our European air network.
“By introducing this aircraft now we can ensure continuously high reliability and on-time performance for the years to come, while we are also able to take a big leap ahead towards our goal of reducing our carbon emissions by 30% by 2020.”
DHL Express said it will benefit from the modern technology offered by the A300-600.
The aircraft will be able to carry up to five tons more than its predecessor, whilst boasting a 900km longer range. It also uses 20% less fuel than the current model.
In addition, the aircraft has similar external dimensions and the same cross section and main deck cargo door as its predecessor, which means that DHL can keep current handling procedures and will avoid additional trainings for ground staff, the company said.
The first converted plane will arrive at DHL’s Leipzig Hub in October. DHL currently serves 85 airports across Europe with 92 planes.
