DHL Aviation has strengthened its logistics capacity in West Africa with the introduction of two fully branded Boeing 737‑400 aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, marking a significant investment in the region’s air cargo infrastructure.
The development is designed to enhance transit times, improve delivery reliability and expand DHL’s operational reach across key markets in West Africa and global trade corridors.
The additional aircraft will be integrated into DHL Aviation’s Sub‑Saharan African air network, reinforcing connections on major trade lanes linking Africa with Europe and Asia.
DHL said the expanded capacity responds to rising demand from sectors such as e‑commerce, perishables, energy and life sciences & healthcare, where predictable and time‑definite delivery services are critical for business growth.
At the unveiling event in Lagos, DHL highlighted the significance of the added aircraft in supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), under which intra‑African trade is expected to accelerate.
Anthony Beckley, Vice President of Operations and Aviation at DHL Express Sub‑Saharan Africa, said that as trade expands across the continent, businesses need predictable transit times and consistent delivery performance to compete effectively in regional and global markets.
The aircraft will operate within DHL’s dedicated aviation network, the only such network in Sub‑Saharan Africa, offering consistent cargo handling and reliability for customers shipping goods not only within West Africa but also to key global destinations.
Riaan Vorster, Aviation Senior Director at DHL Aviation SSA, said the investment reaffirms the company’s positioning as a preferred logistics partner for businesses seeking to grow their presence in both regional and international value chains.
For Nigerian businesses, enhanced air cargo capacity in Lagos—the country’s primary logistics hub—means faster access to export markets and smoother import supply chains.
Improved airlift capacity is particularly crucial for small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in time‑sensitive trade, including agricultural exports, pharmaceuticals and specialised manufacturing inputs.
Economists say better logistics infrastructure can reduce shipping bottlenecks, lower turnaround times and increase competitiveness for urban and regional exporters.
The move also positions Lagos more firmly as a regional logistics gateway for West Africa, potentially attracting further investment in freight services, warehousing and supply chain technologies.
Air cargo efficiency is a key factor for foreign investors and multinational companies when considering Africa‑focused trade strategies, particularly in high‑growth sectors like digital commerce and specialised healthcare logistics.
DHL’s expanded aviation capacity complements its broader commitment to digital innovation and sustainable growth.
The company has emphasised advancements such as AI‑enabled route optimisation, digital customs tools and pilot projects focused on renewable energy and alternative fuels at logistics facilities—a combination intended to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance over the long term.
The addition of two Boeing 737‑400 aircraft to DHL Aviation’s fleet in Lagos represents a strategic enhancement of Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure and a boost for West African trade connectivity.
By increasing air cargo capability and improving delivery predictability, DHL is positioning itself to support regional economic growth, strengthen supply chains and help businesses better integrate into global markets.
