Logistics company DHL Express has placed an order with Boeing for an additional eight 777 freighters. First deliveries are scheduled for 2022.

DHL Express said the order represented a “further step” in the expansion of its intercontinental air network to meet customer demand in fast growing international express shipping markets.

“Although the current health crisis has pushed pause on several areas of life, global trade did not stand still,” said DHL Express’ CEO John Pearson. “Fuelled by globalisation, digitalisation and the unprecedented demand of our customers during the recent peak season, our global e-commerce volume grew by more than 40 per cent in Q4.

“With the order of eight new widebody 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.”

DHL Express’ EVP global network operations and aviation Travis Cobb noted that the 777 “[fitted] well into our intercontinental network and perfectly complements our sustainability goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050”.

The Boeing Company’s commercial sales & marketing senior vice president Ihssane Mounir commented: “DHL operates a powerful, international network that has taken great advantage of the 777 Freighter’s world-class range and efficiency for more than a decade. We are honoured that DHL is placing another major order for the 777 Freighter to grow their business and feed their strong commitment to connecting people and improving lives through sustainable operations. This is especially true today given the critical role DHL plays in distributing Covid-19 vaccines and meeting the increased demand for express cargo.”

DHL Express recently took delivery of the first ten 777F aircraft of an order of 14 made in 2018. The companies also agreed options and purchase rights for four additional planes.