newstodate.aero
May 12, 2011 (newstodate): DHL Express is strengthening its freighter fleet with the acquisition of 13 Airbus A300-600 passenger aircraft.
The aircraft will be converted to freighter configuration by EADS Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, Germany for integration into the European fleet by early 2013, replacing the older A300B4-200 model, which is reaching retirement age.
With 49 tonnes payload, the A300-600 can carry up to five tons more than the A300-B4-200 while at the same time having a 900 kilometers longer range and with up to 20 percent less fuel consumption.
The aircraft also has similar external dimensions and the same cross section and main deck cargo door as its predecessor, enabling DHL to keep current handling procedures and avoiding additional trainings for ground staff.
The first aircraft is scheduled to enter the conversion line in early June, with arrival at DHL's Leipzig Hub planned for October
The aircraft will be converted to freighter configuration by EADS Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, Germany for integration into the European fleet by early 2013, replacing the older A300B4-200 model, which is reaching retirement age.
With 49 tonnes payload, the A300-600 can carry up to five tons more than the A300-B4-200 while at the same time having a 900 kilometers longer range and with up to 20 percent less fuel consumption.
The aircraft also has similar external dimensions and the same cross section and main deck cargo door as its predecessor, enabling DHL to keep current handling procedures and avoiding additional trainings for ground staff.
The first aircraft is scheduled to enter the conversion line in early June, with arrival at DHL's Leipzig Hub planned for October