DHL Express, the world’s leading international express services provider, has entered into a Crew and Maintenance agreement (CM) with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to deploy five Boeing 777 freighters. This agreement marks a further step in DHL Express’ expansion of its intercontinental air network to meet customer demand in fast-growing international express shipping markets.
The freighters 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. They will be based at Singapore’s Changi Airport and will be serving DHL’s South Asia Hub. 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.
SIA’s 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. SIA continues to invest in its cargo capabilities, capitalising on healthy demand fuelled by growth in e-commerce, fresh produce, and pharmaceuticals, among other segments.
Following the pandemic, DHL sees good prospects for strong growth in trans-Pacific trade lanes. Mr Ken Lee, CEO DHL Express Asia Pacific, said that this new agreement will gives the company greater flexibility to add new routes and optimise their aircraft utilisation in the face of unpredictable changes or sudden increases in demand.
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.
Please refer here for a rendering of the Boeing 777F aircraft in the joint DHL and SIA livery, as well as photos of the signing ceremony.
About Singapore Airlines
The SIA Group’s history dates back to 1947 with the maiden flight of Malayan Airways Limited. The airline was later renamed Malaysian Airways Limited and then Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA). In 1972, MSA split into Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Malaysian Airline System. Initially operating a modest fleet of 10 aircraft to 22 cities in 18 countries, SIA has since grown to be a world-class international airline group that is committed to the constant enhancement of the three main pillars of its brand promise: Service Excellence, Product Leadership and Network Connectivity. For more information, please visit www.singaporeair.com.
