The Boeing 767, which replaces the Boeing 757, will offer express, overnight delivery between Sydney and Auckland five times a week as the Trans-Tasman remains one of the key trade lanes for DHL Express Australia.

Based on the latest figures from the DHL Export Barometer 2017, New Zealand remains the top export market for Australian businesses, with 61% of exporters sending goods across the Trans-Tasman trade lane and one in four of them naming New Zealand as their largest export market.

CEO and senior vice president of DHL Express Oceania Gary Edstein said: “As an international air express carrier, aviation is at the core of our business. The Boeing 767 aircraft will enhance the efficiency and speed of delivery, with the latest technology for communications, navigation, enhanced safety systems, and automated roller systems to assist with loading and unloading.

“We are incredibly proud to be the only logistics company with a dedicated aircraft across the Trans-Tasman lane. Over the last decade, trade between Australia and New Zealand has steadily increased, making New Zealand one of our largest services trade partner. And with this purpose built freighter aircraft, we will ensure that we remain competitive for many years to come.”

DHL says the Boeing 767 offers operational flexibility, and an all-digital flight deck allows it to support time-critical deliveries. It also boosts high fuel efficiency with a proven combination of light, durable aluminium alloy and composite structure, making it lighter than comparable freighters.

The aircraft is equipped with powered cargo-handling equipment, both on the main deck and in lower holds, making cargo handling easier and more seamless. The cargo-handling system and operator interface provide complete automation of the cargo-loading process. The freighter’s main deck has both interior and exterior master control panels along with local control panels to provide maximum flexibility.