DHL has expanded its air freight operations in West Africa with the addition of two Boeing 737-400 freighters, a move aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and supporting growing trade flows. The additional aircraft are expected to enhance capacity, improve flight frequency and provide greater reliability across DHL’s intra-African and intercontinental cargo network.
The B737-400 freighters are suited for short- to medium-haul routes and will be deployed to serve key logistics hubs and commercial centres in the region. DHL said the expansion will help meet rising demand from sectors such as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables and industrial goods, while also supporting faster transit times for cross-border shipments.
The investment forms part of DHL’s broader strategy to deepen its footprint in Africa, where air cargo plays a critical role due to limited surface transport infrastructure in several markets. By increasing dedicated freighter capacity, the company aims to reduce bottlenecks, enhance schedule stability and improve service quality for customers operating in and out of West Africa.
Industry observers note that capacity additions by global integrators underline the region’s growing importance in global supply chains. With trade volumes expected to rise under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), improved air freight connectivity is seen as key to unlocking export potential and strengthening regional trade integration.