DHL Express boosts Hong Kong–Penang capacity with Boeing 767F

DHL Express has strengthened its network by adding more capacity on the Hong Kong–Penang route. The service will now be operated by a Boeing 767 freighter instead of an Airbus A321, delivering an extra 20 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight.

Operating daily with its partner Raya Airways, DHL aims to support the rising demand for time-sensitive shipments from technology and semiconductor manufacturers in Malaysia’s northern manufacturing hub. The Boeing 767 freighter will offer enhanced payload and range capabilities, accommodating more shipments and ensuring customers in Penang are better connected to their trading partners in Hong Kong and beyond.

“For decades, Penang has been an attractive destination for tech giants, and we are proud of our strong footprint and network that has contributed to that growth,” says Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation, Asia Pacific, DHL Express. “By introducing a larger aircraft and a daily schedule, we’re not only increasing capacity but also reinforcing our dedication to connecting Asia’s innovation hubs with the rest of the world. As trade lanes alter, we remain focused on maintaining our network’s flexibility and agility to cater to changing customer needs.”

This upgrade underscores DHL’s commitment to supporting Malaysia’s expanding role in global supply chains, especially in electronics and semiconductors. Penang continues to draw high-value investments and strengthen its position in the global tech landscape, recording about EUR 2.56 billion (RM12.5 billion) in manufacturing investments in the first half of 2025, an increase of 150% over the same period in 2024.

“The network enhancement aligns with findings from the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker 2025, which shows that Asia Pacific is increasingly playing a central role in global trade, despite geopolitical tensions and tariff disruptions. Intra-Asia trade continues to show momentum, with Malaysia being ranked among the top 10 fastest-growing trading nations globally in the first half of 2025,” says Julian Neo, Country Manager, DHL Express, Malaysia.

“Our partnership with DHL Express has grown over the years through operational reliability and close collaboration. The introduction of the Boeing 767 further strengthens our support for Penang’s expanding electrical and electronics industries, while enhancing Malaysia’s connectivity to global markets. We look forward to continuing this partnership as we grow our capacity and serve the evolving needs of our customers,” says Mohamad Najib Ishak, Group Managing Director, Raya Airways.

Malaysia’s trade value growth underscores its resilience and rising importance in global supply chains, amid shifting trade dynamics. It is one of the 20 markets globally that DHL Group has identified with the highest growth potential. The recently concluded DHL GoTrade Summit 2025, held for the first time outside Germany in Kuala Lumpur, also underscores the logistics provider’s commitment to elevating local enterprises and reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a key player in the global marketplace.