Delivery company DHL Express has said it has ordered 14 new Boeing 77F freighter jets that has a further option for purchase rights for seven more aircraft.

The first four aircraft are due to be delivered next year.

In a statement, Ken Allen, CEO, DHL Express, said: “The acquisition of the 14 Boeing airplanes reflects a gradual replacement of our older intercontinental fleet.

“As the most fuel-efficient, most reliable freighter type with the best long-haul range, these aircraft will contribute to our emissions reduction targets and allow us to serve even more markets with non-stop flights.

“DHL was an early adopter of this type of aircraft for the logistics industry and took delivery of the 3rd B777F produced by Boeing in 2009. With extensive experience operating this freighter type, it has proven to be superior in all aspects of operation making it a logical choice.”

The new aircraft are capable of a range of 4900 nautical miles carrying up to 102 tons of cargo.

The DHL statement added that “in the past [it] has chiefly been leasing aircraft to operate its global network on the routes, [so] the purchase of fully owned freighter aircraft will improve the cost position of the DHL Express division going forward”.