Japanese container carrier Ocean Network Express announced the modernization of its Levant Express (LEX) service and the launch of a new Aegean Express (AEX) route. The company stated that the updated solutions are aimed at strengthening north-south connectivity, reducing transit times, and increasing schedule stability.
The new Aegean Express service will operate weekly and will rotate the following route: Felixstowe – Hamburg – Bremerhaven – Antwerp – Piraeus – Izmit – Istanbul – Gemlik – Aliaga – Felixstowe. The line is scheduled to launch on March 25, 2026, with the call of the Sofia Express 613S at the port of Felixstowe. Ocean Network Express notes that the route is aimed at strengthening trade ties between Northern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean regions and Turkey.
The company emphasizes that the updated LEX and AEX services will provide customers with more flexible logistics solutions, an expanded selection of port and inland options, and efficient integration with the carrier’s feeder network. Additional attention has been paid to local customer support and supply chain optimization, which should improve the reliability and predictability of shipments.