DHL goes big on capacity and sustainability with refreshed A330 freighters

SWITCHING IT UP

DHL Express has completed the modernization of its Air Hong Kong-operated fleet, swapping out aging A300 aircraft with new A330 freighters—a move designed to deliver greater capacity, improved reliability, and a smaller carbon footprint.

Nearly a decade in the making, DHL first signed the A330 conversion agreement in July 2016 with EFW and ST Engineering. By staying agile in managing tight timelines and coordinating across multiple teams, the 4th and final aircraft of the program was ready for take-off in June 2025.

The A330 aircraft, a mix of passenger-to-freighter conversions and factory-built freighters, were already in service across the region. They replace older models that were becoming increasingly difficult to maintain due to limited technical support.

The refleeting project marks a major milestone for DHL’s aviation network in Asia Pacific and supports the company’s broader goals under Strategy 2030.

All aboard the A330

What was the driving force behind this upgrade, and what are the positive impacts that come with it? In this video, Peter Bardens, SVP of Network Operations & Aviation, Asia Pacific, DHL Express, explains the purpose and impact of this project.

A Next Generation Upgrade

Compared with the A300-600F, the A330F delivers upgraded features, offering resilience and reliability in DHL Express’s aviation network and contributing to Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub. The enhancements, ranging from better fuel efficiency, increased payload, and many more, add to the fleet’s capability in meeting the growing demand for intercontinental delivery.

Benefits of the upgraded A330

The new A330F offers 25 percent more payload capacity and boasts a longer range of up to 7,400km.
Built to support heavier cargo loads, the strengthened floor panels enhance safety and allow for more efficient use of space when transporting high-density shipments.
Besides adding four tons of cargo capacity per flight, the A330’s wide-body design accommodates a broader variety of pallet sizes and container types. This makes it ideal for adapting to diverse market demands across the region.
Designed for speed and efficiency, the adaptable loading system streamlines the handling of different cargo configurations—reducing turnaround times and improving operational flexibility.

Benefits of the upgraded A330

The new A330F offers 25 percent more payload capacity and boasts a longer range of up to 7,400km.
Built to support heavier cargo loads, the strengthened floor panels enhance safety and allow for more efficient use of space when transporting high-density shipments.
Besides adding four tons of cargo capacity per flight, the A330’s wide-body design accommodates a broader variety of pallet sizes and container types. This makes it ideal for adapting to diverse market demands across the region.
Designed for speed and efficiency, the adaptable loading system streamlines the handling of different cargo configurations—reducing turnaround times and improving operational flexibility.