Atlas Air and DHL Express extend freighter agreements
14 / 09 / 2021
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Atlas Air has entered into contract extensions with DHL Express that will see it continuing to operate 20 freighter aircraft to support the forwarders’ “fast-growing” express and e-commerce markets.
Under the extended agreements, Atlas Air will continue to operate four different aircraft for DHL Express, including: six Boeing 747-8 freighters; two Boeing 747-400 freighters; eight Boeing 777-200 freighters; and four Boeing 767-300 freighters.
The contract extensions are based on the strategic partnership between the two companies, initially established in 2008.
“These agreements build on the long-standing strategic partnership between Atlas Air Worldwide and DHL, which began in 2008 and included DHL acquiring 49% of AAWW’s subsidiary, Polar Air Cargo, as well as a long-term agreement for six dedicated 747-400Fs to operate on key Trans-Pacific routes,” Atlas Air said in a statement.
John Dietrich, president and chief executive of Atlas Air Worldwide, commented: “DHL Express is a global leader in express and e-commerce, and it is our privilege to contribute to their continued success.
“These agreements build on our successful 13-year partnership. We look forward to continuing to provide DHL Express with critical capacity through our modern, fuel-efficient fleet. As this agreement indicates, Atlas is capitalising on the strong global airfreight market conditions as we deepen relationships with our customers.”
Rob Hyslop, executive vice president of aviation at DHL Express, added: “We are pleased to extend our long-standing and valued partnership with Atlas Air.
“Continuing to utilise Atlas and its global operating capabilities enables us to best serve our customers and their continued high demand for fast international shipping, fuelled by the megatrend of e-commerce and the overall importance of global trade.”
