DHL Express has ordered eight new additional Boeing 777 freighters as it looks to expand its global network to meet customer demand in the fast growing international express shipping markets.

First deliveries are scheduled for 2022, and Boeing and the express operator have agreed options and purchase rights for four additional planes.

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“Although the current health crisis has pushed pause on several areas of life, global trade did not stand still,” says John Pearson, CEO at DHL Express.

“Fueled by globalization, digitalization and the unprecedented demand of our customers during the recent peak season, our global e-commerce volume grew by more than 40 percent in Q4.

“With the order of eight new wide body freighter aircraft, we underline our conviction that e-commerce is an enduring megatrend. This is why we decided to act early and kick-off 2021 with this investment in our future,” he continued.

DHL Express had already received the first 10 new B777F aircraft as part of an original order of 14 aircraft made in 2018.

Boeing’s 2020 World Air Cargo Forecast anticipates significant increase in demand for new and converted freighters with a fleet growth of more than 60 percent over the next 20 years.