DHL expands connectivity

DHL, a global logistics major, on Tuesday announced the launch of a Boeing 777F freighter service between Bangalore and Leipzig, Germany, in response to the growing air cargo demand into and out of South India.

Originating from Bangkok and Singapore, the new service will operate five times a week between Bangalore and DHL’s European hub in Leipzig, Germany.

The new freighter will be operated by AeroLogic, a joint venture cargo airline of DHL Express and Lufthansa Cargo. “India continues to be a high growth market for DHL Express and there is specific focus on investing in infrastructure, network and people in India to augment growth. This includes investments to enhance service facilities and upgrade air connectivity from and into the country. These investments will more than double the dedicated air network capacity of DHL into and out of India.

The launch of the freighter at Bangalore is a step towards facilitating growth in this region,” said Malcolm Monteiro, Senior Vice President & Area Director, South Asia, DHL Express.

DHL Express also has in-house customs clearance facility at Bangalore for faster clearances into and from South India.

The B777 freighter, which offers over 100-tonne capacity, is expected to boost transit times on key trade routes between Europe and Asia. With direct connectivity to and from South India locations, the freighter service will provide better flexibility in cut-off times for shipment pick-up in South India, Monteiro added.