VIDEO: DB Schenker launches China cargo network with PAX-Freighters
01 / 05 / 2020
Schenker China Shuttle - Copyright Deutsche Bahn AG
Icelandair has converted three Boeing 767 passenger aircraft as part of forwarder DB Schenker’s daily air cargo operation between Shanghai and Munich (video below).
DB Schenker launched the new air cargo operation in response to capacity bottlenecks out of China as a result of the lack of bellyhold capacity due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The China Shuttle is aimed specifically at customers who import medical equipment, such as masks or protective suits, from China to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Bookings for several thousand cubic meters of freight have already been received, DB Schenker said.
The lead time to delivery at the destination is five to seven days. Initially, 45 shuttle flights are planned from Shanghai Pudong to Munich in 12 rotations per week, once fully operational. An expansion of the shuttle and further connections, e.g. twice a week to Chicago, are in preparation.
Icelandair converted the three passenger aircraft exclusively for DB Schenker by removing the passenger seats.
This will create more than 200 cubic meters of cargo space in the belly and on the passenger deck. A DB Schenker logo has been placed on the outer hull of the three Boeing 767.
“Where capacity is lacking, we create it. DB Schenker is thus also expanding the global supply network in the fight against Coronavirus”, said Thorsten Meincke, member of the management board for sir and ocean freight at DB Schenker. “With these additional flights, we have demonstrated our ability to act with flexibility and speed during a crisis.”
