How DHL is Improving Airbus' Supply Chain Visibility

DHL Supply Chain has announced the renewal and expansion of its contract with Airbus to better manage its global transport flows.

The partnership has existed since 2008 and helps transform global supply chains into cohesive systems.

With a shared interest in sustainable operations and driving efficiency, DHL Supply Chain acts as a dedicated partner for the aircraft manufacturer.

Digital solutions enhance logistics

Part of the DHL Group, DHL Supply Chain offers logistics solutions to drive resilience and efficiency across its clients' operations.

Through the combining of management and value-added services with integrated solutions, DHL ensures the logistics solutions it offers can transform a business.

The logistics provider offers clean solutions and improves the quality of customer operations while working to protect the climate.

The effective management of logistics contracts is vital for large enterprises. DHL consistently makes investments in digital transformation and partnerships to enhance both customer and employee experience.

It ensures it meets trade compliance rulings for each area it operates in. It has announced the furthering of its partnership with Airbus to help manage its global transport flows for commercial aircraft activities.

The lead transport partnership (LTP) was originally launched in 2008 but has since grown in capabilities. Airbus delivers products and solutions for commercial aircraft, defence and helicopter sectors.

Its aircrafts are being developed to be safer, more fuel-efficient and sustainable.

“Since 2008, our collaboration with Airbus has been built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence," says Nico Schütz, CEO of DHL Supply Chain France.

"This renewal demonstrates our ability to deliver tailored, scalable supply chain management solutions that support Airbus’ growth, while advancing the digital transformation of its supply chain to meet today’s and tomorrow’s needs."

"Through technological innovation, continuous process improvement, and the mobilisation of all of DHL Group’s expertise, we help enhance Airbus’ visibility and shorten order fulfilment times."

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Prioritising sustainable supply chains

DHL aids Airbus with its Inbound-to-Manufacturing and Control-Tower services as well as offering support with storage, packaging services, general cargo and customs clearance.

Throughout the partnership, the companies have worked collaboratively to ensure quality solutions. The LTP now encompasses air, sea, road and parcel transport alongside a 24/7 service for Aircraft on Ground (AOG) operations.

Through greater efficiency and a dedication to sustainability from both companies, this partnership offers solutions for the wider supply chain.

DHL has been undergoing a push to implement cleaner fuels within its own and its sub-contractors' fleet. This strategy is mirrored in the move by Airbus to use alternative fuel sources.

“In a context where logistics performance must also align with energy efficiency, DHL Supply Chain leverages its full range of expertise to combine technological innovation with carbon footprint reduction," says Catherine O'Toole, Head of LLP and Transport EMEA at DHL Supply Chain.

"The integration of the new transport management system not only improves planning and reduces lead times but also optimises routes and load factors, helping to cut transport-related emissions.

"This partnership reflects DHL and Airbus’ shared commitment to accelerating the transition to a more resilient, intelligent and sustainable supply chain.”

Managing complex global flows

DHL Supply Chain manages approximately 350,000 shipments every year for around 20 Airbus sites around the world. Its centres are focused in Toulouse, France and Valencia, Spain.

Its main priorities are lead times, service quality and regulatory compliance as it oversees a range of services.

Currently, DHL coordinates inbound flows from suppliers to factories, inter-factory flows between China, the US and Europe and outbound flows regarding returns to suppliers or spare parts that are not needed.

Supply chains perform a vital role in consumer demand and satisfaction. As consumer demands have risen, supply chains have been forced to readjust to a changing geopolitical environment.

“Supply chain complexity is increasing due to globalisation, increased product variety and technological changes; raising expectations and demands for improved service, greater visibility and control across supply chains," says Rainer Haag, CEO Europe, DHL Supply Chain.

"We are proud to create this visibility for Airbus through our LTP control towers in Valencia, Spain and Toulouse, France, to ensure efficient flows of their manufacturing parts globally.”

The partnership will increase visibility and care throughout the supply chain as DHL conducts quality control and will handle claims on behalf of Airbus.