DHL Global Forwarding has expanded its dedicated air freight capacity between Asia and Europe. The company launched new weekly flights linking key logistics hubs in Shanghai, Leipzig, Hong Kong, and Liège.
The move strengthens collaboration between DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express. It also improves the Group’s ability to serve fast-growing Asia–Europe trade lanes.
New routes boost capacity and reliability
With the start of the summer aviation schedule, DHL will operate Boeing 777F freighters on two main routes: Shanghai–Leipzig and Hong Kong–Liège. These flights provide additional capacity and support onward distribution across Europe.
“Expanding our controlled capacity on the Asia-Europe corridor reinforces our commitment to reliability, speed, and resilience for our customers,” said Henk Venema, Global Head of Air Freight at DHL Global Forwarding. “The demand on that trade lane continues to grow at an exceptional pace, and strengthening our network ensures that we stay ahead of customer needs.”
Strategic hubs enhance connectivity
Leipzig will serve as a key gateway for shipments from Shanghai. DHL selected the hub for its strong infrastructure and central role in the DHL Express aviation network. The location helps improve efficiency and manage demand during peak seasons.
The Liège–Hong Kong route includes a stopover in Tel Aviv. This stop supports continued service reliability in the region. It may also allow limited cargo loading or unloading when needed. On the return leg, shipments from Hong Kong will feed directly into DHL’s European distribution network.
Cross-division collaboration drives efficiency
DHL continues to align its divisions to improve service quality and flexibility. By combining DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express capabilities, the Group offers more reliable and integrated logistics solutions.
“This cross-divisional collaboration demonstrates our commitment to supporting global trade flows,” said Travis Cobb, EVP Global Operations and Aviation at DHL Express. “By joining forces across DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express, we ensure that customers benefit from our combined strength as the world’s leading logistics provider.”
Further network expansion planned
DHL is also preparing additional upgrades to its global air network. The company plans to increase transpacific capacity between Southeast Asia and the United States later this year.
By leveraging shared assets and operational strengths, DHL enhances flexibility, resilience, and global reach. The new flights mark another step in delivering integrated, end-to-end logistics solutions for customers worldwide.
