The first of 14 ordered fuel-efficient planes took off from Cincinnati bound for Bahrain on Saturday.
DHL’s first of 14 ordered Boeing 777 Freighters took off Saturday from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport bound for Bahrain on its commercial maiden flight.
“The replacement of the older intercontinental fleet with the most fuel-efficient and reliable freighter type allows DHL to meet the increasing global demand for express services,” the company said in a statement. “The new Boeing 777 will strengthen DHL’s intercontinental services and connect major DHL hubs in Cincinnati, Leipzig, Hong Kong and others. Operated by DHL partner Southern Air, the plane will soon start scheduled operations.”
With a payload capability of 112 tons and a range of 9,200 kilometers, the B777 F has the largest capacity and range of all twin-engine freight airplanes, according to DHL, which added that they also are more fuel efficient and reliable than older models, reducing CO2 emissions by 18% versus the aircraft being replaced.
Older B747-400s aircraft gradually will be replaced as the new models arrive. Another three B777 F are scheduled to arrive this year.
