International courier DHL express has launched a new cargo airline.

DHL Air Austria, which is headquartered at Vienna Airport, will handle European cargo flights with a fleet of 18 Boeing 757 aircraft.

Three of the 18 Boeing aircraft are already registered in Austria. The transfer of the other 15 to DHL Air Austria is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2022.

DHL Express Austria’s CEO Ralf Schweighöfer described the launch as “an important milestone” for the company: “With this important step, we are making our air freight network in Europe more flexible and stable, while at the same time continuing to meet our customers’ high demand for cross-border express deliveries and providing them with sufficient capacity.”

The new cargo airline will require 176 pilots and create a further 54 new jobs at Vienna Airport.

“The establishment of DHL Express’ first Austrian airline and the receipt of all licenses is a historic moment for all of us. The efficient implementation of this important milestone would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our team and, above all, without the great support of the responsible ministry as well as Austro Control”, said DHL Air Austria’s managing director Barbara Achleitner.

“It makes us particularly proud that we have managed such enormous achievements together as a team within nine months and that we are creating 54 new jobs at our headquarters at Vienna International Airport.”

After examining options in various European countries, DHL Express said Austria was chosen as the “optimal location” for the new cargo airline.

“In addition to stable political and economic conditions and the excellent global reputation of the domestic aviation authorities, the location also offers the best geographical conditions in the heart of Europe,” the company said.

Following talks with Austrian authorities in February this year, the company was issued an Air Operator Certificate and Operating License on 18 October.