DHL Express adds 12 electric aircraft to fleet

DHL has purchased 12 electric aircraft from Eviation which will operate on all routes currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft, the company announced in an Aug. 3 press release. Eviation is expected to deliver the 12 Alice aircraft to DHL in 2024.

 “We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,” John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express, said in a statement. “Therefore, our investments always follow the objective of improving our carbon footprint. On our way to clean logistics operations, the electrification of every transport mode plays a crucial role and will significantly contribute to our overall sustainability goal of zero emissions. Founded in 1969, DHL Express has been known as a pioneer in the aviation industry for decades. We have found the perfect partner with Eviation as they share our purpose, and together we will take off into a new era of sustainable aviation.”

Eviation’s electric aircraft, the Alice eCargo plane, will have a payload of 2,600 lbs. And a range of 815 kilometers, according to the release. The aircraft will require 30 minutes or less to recharge during flights. It also has fewer parts than traditional aircraft which will reduce maintenance costs and improve reliability.

Eviation’s Alice aircraft could be used on feeder routes.

“From day one, we set an audacious goal to transform the aviation industry and create a new era with electric aircraft,” Eviation CEO Omer Bar-Yohay said in a statement. “Partnering with companies like DHL who are the leaders in sustainable e-cargo transportation is a testament that the electric era is upon us. This announcement is a significant milestone on our quest to transform the future of flight across the globe.”

Eviation is expected to deliver the 12 Alice aircraft to DHL in 2024, according to the release.

“The next time you order an on-demand package, check if it was delivered with a zero-emission aircraft like DHL will be doing,” Eviation Executive Chairman Roei Ganzarski said in a statement. “With on-demand shopping and deliveries on a constant rise, Alice is enabling DHL to establish a clean, quiet and low-cost operation that will open up greater opportunities for more communities.”

DHL has set sustainability goals that include investing 7 billion euros in efforts that reduce CO2 emissions by 2023, according to the release. The company has also committed to zero emissions by 2050. Source: DHL press release.