Air China Cargo signs deal for six Airbus A350F freighters

Published 14/11/2025, 12:56
© Reuters.

Investing.com -- Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement for six Airbus A350F aircraft, becoming the first customer to order the new freighter model in the Chinese mainland.

Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo, said: "The introduction of the A350F to our existing mixed cargo fleet contributes to efficiency in operation and maintenance. The A350F will enhance Air China Cargo’s capability to withstand risks in its long-term stable operation."

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, stating: "We are delighted to welcome Air China Cargo as the latest customer for the A350F. The A350F will bring new generation efficiency and performance as well as new levels of capacity and unprecedented loading flexibility. We look forward to ensuring a seamless integration into Air China Cargo’s operation."

Air China Cargo, headquartered in Beijing, is China’s only cargo airline carrying the national flag. Since June 2025, the airline has been operating all-cargo aircraft across North China, East China, South China, and Southwest China. The carrier currently operates 25 all-cargo routes to major regions worldwide, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East. Its network is further enhanced by more than 1,500 global ground trucking routes.

The A350F is designed as an advanced freighter aircraft to meet evolving global air cargo market needs. It can carry up to 111 tonnes with a range of 8,700 km. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft offers up to 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation aircraft.

The new freighter is constructed with over 70% advanced materials, making it 46 tonnes lighter than competitors. It features the industry’s largest main deck cargo door and is the only freighter fully compliant with ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ standards. When it enters service, the A350F will be 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) capable, with a target for 100% capability by 2030.

Assembly of test aircraft is currently underway in Toulouse. As of the end of October 2025, the A350 Family had secured 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 74 orders for the A350F from 12 customers.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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