Atlas Air set to become biggest A350F operator with firm order

Global air logistics specialist Atlas Air Worldwide has place a firm order for 20 Airbus A350F with the European OEM making them the biggest customer of the yet to be certified aircraft.

The A350F has received steady sales proving popular with many cargo carriers partly as it will be the only dedicated freighter to meet the new ICAO CO2 emission standards which come into effect next year, which is when the A350F is set to enter service.

The aircraft also features the largest main cargo door of any cargo aircraft and can carry 111 tonnes of freight up to 4,700 nautical miles giving it a 20% better cash operating cost per tonne than its competitors.

“We are proud to become the largest customer for the Airbus A350F, securing early delivery positions for this next-generation widebody freighter platform,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “This order reflects our commitment to maintaining the industry’s most modern and fuel-efficient widebody freighter fleet to best service existing and new customers worldwide. The A350F is a highly capable, reliable platform, with incremental payload and range benefits, and a strong sustainability profile. We are pleased to add Airbus and Rolls-Royce to our supplier base of leading aircraft and engine manufacturers, offering us optionality and supporting our global operations and continued growth.” 

Lars Wagner, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus added: “Atlas Air’s selection of the latest generation A350F – the first in the US – represents a pivotal moment, cementing the A350F’s position as the preferred true all new-generation freighter for the world’s most demanding cargo operators. We very much look forward to seeing it flying in Atlas’ colours.”