DHL Launches Direct Bahrain-South Africa Cargo Flight

DHL Express has launched a weekly direct cargo service between Bahrain and South Africa, adding a new air link between the Middle East and southern Africa as trade flows between the two regions expand.

The first flight arrived at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg using a Boeing 767 freighter, establishing a new aviation route that will increase cargo capacity for South Africa and neighbouring markets served through DHL’s Johannesburg hub.

The service is designed to provide additional inbound and outbound capacity while giving businesses a direct connection between Bahrain and Johannesburg. DHL said the route would also increase flexibility for customers moving goods along the Africa-Middle East corridor.

Bahrain serves as a connection point between Africa, the Gulf and Asia within DHL’s aviation network. The company said the new route comes as businesses diversify their sourcing, manufacturing and customer markets across different regions.

Anthony Beckley, vice-president of operations and aviation for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, said demand for international logistics was increasing in sectors including healthcare, technology, manufacturing and cross-border e-commerce.

“Every new connection we introduce is designed with our customers in mind,” Beckley said. “While this first direct DHL flight between Bahrain and South Africa is a significant network milestone, its real value lies in the opportunities it creates for customers.”

DHL identifies South Africa as one of its “Geographic Tailwinds” markets, citing its growing role in international trade and potential for future trade expansion. Johannesburg is also a key gateway in the company’s Sub-Saharan African network.

Richard Gale, vice-president of aviation at DHL Express MENA, said the company operates a dedicated intra-regional air fleet across the Middle East, with Bahrain connected to major global gateways including Hong Kong, Leipzig and Cincinnati.

“Bahrain's position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East makes it an ideal hub for customers seeking faster, more reliable access across these growing trade corridors,” Gale said.

The company said the new service forms part of its continued investment in aircraft capacity, routes and hub connectivity as trade relationships between Africa and the Gulf develop.

Source: FSX Business News