DHL Express has launched a weekly freighter service between Bahrain and Johannesburg, adding a direct cargo link between the Middle East and South Africa.
The first flight has arrived at OR Tambo International Airport. The service is operated by a Boeing 767 freighter and connects with DHL’s Johannesburg hub, which handles shipments for South Africa and neighbouring countries.
DHL said the route will provide more capacity for inbound and outbound shipments and improve connections between sub-Saharan Africa, the Gulf and markets served through its Bahrain hub. The company did not disclose the service’s cargo capacity, flight schedule or expected shipment volumes.
Anthony Beckley, DHL Express Vice-President of Operations and Aviation for Sub-Saharan Africa, said the company is seeing demand from healthcare, technology, manufacturing and cross-border e-commerce customers.
“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,” he said.
Bahrain links DHL’s regional air network with international gateways including Hong Kong, Leipzig and Cincinnati. DHL Express Middle East and North Africa Vice-President of Aviation Richard Gale said the new Johannesburg service will strengthen access between Africa and those markets.
The company said the route is part of its investment in air capacity and connections for South Africa and the wider region.
