Cathay Group orders two A350F freighters

Above: Cathay Cargo – A350F.
© AIRBUS SAS 2023

This will bring the airline’s total order to eight of the new-generation cargo aircraft. The A350F will be operated by the airline’s cargo division, Cathay Cargo, bringing new levels of efficiency across its extensive network.

Ronald Lam, Chief Executive of the Cathay Group said: “We are pleased to further strengthen our fleet with these additional A350F freighters that will provide greater connectivity at our home hub and more choices for our customers. This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier.”  

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said: “Cathay’s continued endorsement of the A350F is another powerful signal that the A350F brings a new generation of freighter capacity and efficiency. The A350F will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing Airbus fleet with unrivalled operational and technical commonality, while accelerating the airline’s decarbonisation journey. We could not be more excited to grow this partnership.” 

Designed to be the world’s most advanced cargo aircraft, the A350F meets the evolving demands of the global air freight market. Thanks to a range capability of up to 8,700 kilometres with a payload of up to 111 tonnes, it will allow operators to deploy it on international long-haul routes. Made from over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than competitor aircraft. 

Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 20% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. It is the only new freighter fully meeting ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ emission standards. The A350F is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for up to 100% capability by 2030 (as with all Airbus aircraft).  

At the end of April 2026, the A350F freighter had registered 101 firm orders from 14  customers worldwide.