DHL introduces two additional aircraft powering DHL Express operations across West Africa © DHL Aviation

DHL boosts West African air freight capacity with two more B737-400s

DHL Aviation has introduced two fully branded Boeing 737-400 aircraft into its Sub-Saharan African (SSA) network, unveiling them at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The move represents a notable step in DHL’s continued investment in strengthening logistics infrastructure across the region, with a particular focus on West Africa’s fast-growing trade corridors.

The additional aircraft significantly increase DHL’s dedicated air capacity in the region. This expansion is designed to shorten transit times, improve the reliability and predictability of deliveries, and extend DHL’s operational reach for customers shipping within West Africa and to international destinations. Businesses operating across borders increasingly depend on consistent logistics performance, and DHL aims to meet these expectations through a more robust aviation network.

As the only logistics integrator operating its own dedicated air network in Sub-Saharan Africa, DHL continues to scale its aviation uplift in response to rising demand. Growth is being driven by key sectors such as e-commerce, perishables, energy, and life sciences and healthcare, all of which require speed, reliability, and specialist handling. The two Boeing 737-400 aircraft will be fully integrated into DHL Aviation’s African air network, reinforcing critical trade lanes linking Africa with Europe and Asia.

DHL leadership highlighted that the expansion aligns closely with broader continental trade developments, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As intra-African and global trade volumes increase, companies are placing greater emphasis on predictable transit times and dependable delivery performance to remain competitive.

Beyond capacity growth, the investment supports DHL’s wider strategy for sustainable and future-ready logistics. The company continues to advance digitalisation through AI-enabled route optimisation and digital customs solutions, helping to improve efficiency and transparency. At the same time, DHL is piloting renewable energy initiatives and alternative fuel projects across its facilities, underscoring its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility.

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