DHL EXPRESS has announced that it is acquiring thirteen A300-600 passenger aircraft to be converted into freighters by EADS Elbe Flugzeugwerke in Dresden, Germany, as part of plans to modernise its European fleet.

    The company said in a statement that the new aircraft are expected to be fully integrated into the European fleet by early 2013 and will replace the older A300B4-200 model, which is reaching retirement age.

    "The A300-600 is a very attractive mid-range aircraft and the perfect fit for our European air network," said DHL Express European network director Bryan Jamison.

    "By introducing this aircraft now we can ensure reliability and on-time performance for the years to come, while reducing our carbon emissions," he said.

    The A300-600 offers 49 tons payload, up to five tons more than the A300-B4-200 while at the same time having a 900 kilometre longer range and with up to 20 per cent less fuel consumption. In addition, the aircraft has similar external dimensions and the same cross section and main deck cargo door as its predecessor, which means the company anticipates it will be able to keep current handling procedures and avoid additional trainings for ground staff.

    The first aircraft is scheduled to enter the conversion programme in early June, with arrival at its Leipzig hub planned for October.

(Source:http://www.schednet.com)