43 freighter flights a week • New routings via Munich Airport • Securing capacity for customers in a challenging environment
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, DB Schenker has extended its global flight network. For the first time in its company history, own-controlled flights connect America, Europe and Asia directly. This week the first of two routings touching three continents took off from Munich Airport. The new offer comes in addition to the major commercial block space agreements DB Schenker holds with preferred airline partners. It is a reaction to the ongoing lack of freight capacity on passenger flights. Every week, the 43 flights can transport as much cargo as 135 wide-body passenger aircraft would hold.
The first new route runs from Chicago (RFD) via Munich to Tokyo (NRT) and Seoul (ICN) before flying back to Germany and from there again to the US. It is operated by National Airlines and offers a combined weekly transport capacity of 400 tons. The second connection will be launched end of February and alternates from Munich to Chennai (MAA) and Chicago (RFD), with a combined weekly capacity of 300 tons. Both routes will run for one year to provide stability in a challenging environment.
In 2020, the number of flights controlled and marketed by DB Schenker rose to a record high. Many of the new connections were initially established to substitute missing passenger flights. This continues in 2021. In addition, medical supply products will remain an important driver for air capacity demand. General air cargo volumes for automotive equipment and consumer goods are increasing while the capacity-shortage prevails. With the extended flight portfolio DB Schenker also creates additional capacities for potential COVID-19 vaccine transportation demand.