European OEM Airbus has received a boost for the yet-to-be-certified Airbus A350 Freighter (A350F) with both Air China Cargo and Cathay Group ordering additional units.
Air China Cargo has purchased an additional four aircraft, bringing their total order for the type to 10, while Cathay Group ordered an additional two aircraft, bringing their total to eight.
Speaking about the additional aircraft, Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo, said: “This additional order, following our initial A350F order last year, is a crucial strategic decision for the company to further optimise our fleet structure and expand transport capacity. It will allow us to better match and meet the demands of the international air cargo market, laying a solid foundation for the company’s long-term stable development,”
While 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,”
The Airbus A350F is designed to be the world’s most advanced freighter aircraft and features the largest main deck cargo door of any dedicated freighter.
Powered by British-made Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 and with wings made in Broughton, North Wales, the orders are a boost to UK industry also.
As of the end of April 2026, the A350F has received firm orders for 101 units.