DHL Express Builds Aircraft Maintenance Hangar in Vitoria-Gasteiz

DHL Express Spain has announced an investment of over 40 million euros in the construction of a new European aircraft maintenance hangar in Vitoria-Gasteiz, thereby strengthening Spain’s role in the company’s global strategy. The new facility, which is set to become operational in mid-2027, will be the second most important maintenance center for DHL Express in Europe after Leipzig.

(Bonn/Vitoria) “We are pleased to confirm that the new European aircraft maintenance hangar of DHL Express will be established in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The location is a crucial factor in securing our aircraft maintenance capacities for the coming years,” says Jesús Sánchez, Senior Vice President Hubs & Gateways, DHL Express Europe. “The facility will not only relieve the Leipzig maintenance and repair center but also provide opportunities for local professionals, especially aviation technicians.”

The hangar, which will initially employ around 50 staff, will focus on the maintenance of the DHL B757 fleet or other aircraft of the company. In addition to the hangar, the facility will also include office space and storage areas for tools and essential aircraft parts such as engines, APU systems, landing gears, and thrust reversers.

“The location of Vitoria-Gasteiz near European countries and Morocco, the capacity and operational capabilities of Vitoria Airport, as well as the support we have received from public institutions and local authorities, were decisive factors in the decision,” adds Tomás Holgado, Vice President of Hubs & Gateways of DHL Express Spain. “The new facility underscores DHL Express’s commitment to continuous investment in Spain, an important component of our global strategy.”

The new site will be located west of the existing DHL Express hub at Vitoria Airport and will cover more than 19,700 square meters. It will provide 6,600 square meters of hangar space, 1,605 square meters of outdoor facilities, and 11,500 square meters of apron area (runway).

Shorter Distance for Return and Overhaul

In line with DHL Group’s goal of achieving net zero emissions logistics by 2050, the new hangar will be climate-neutral. Furthermore, it will help DHL Express significantly reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing the number of positioning flights to European maintenance facilities outside of DHL. Additionally, the center offers the added advantage of a shorter distance for the return and overhaul of retired aircraft on the Iberian Peninsula.

Photo: © DHL