Air China Cargo has made history by becoming the first purchaser of the highly-anticipated A350F on the Chinese mainland, following the signing of a purchase agreement for six units of the cutting-edge aircraft.
According to Wang Hongyan, the Vice President of Air China Cargo, the inclusion of the A350F in the company’s diverse cargo fleet will bolster operational and maintenance efficiency. He believes that the A350F will enhance the airline’s resilience and ensure its long-term stability.
Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, expressed his delight in welcoming Air China Cargo as the newest customer for the A350F. The advanced aircraft is expected to bring unprecedented capacity, loading flexibility, and next-generation efficiency and performance to the company. Airbus is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for Air China Cargo with the integration of the A350F.
Air China Cargo, which is based in Beijing, proudly carries the Chinese national flag and stands as the country’s sole cargo airline to do so. Since June 2025, the airline has been managing all cargo aircraft operations across North, East, South, and Southwest China. The organization has established 25 exclusive cargo routes connecting major regions and cities across the globe, including destinations in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. This extensive network is further complemented by over 1,500 ground trucking routes worldwide.
The A350F, known as the most technologically advanced freighter aircraft in the world, is designed to cater to the changing demands of the global air cargo market. It boasts a maximum capacity of 111 tonnes and a range of 8,700 km. Equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350F promises a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared to its predecessors.
Constructed with over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is significantly lighter than its rivals, weighing in at 46 tonnes less. Its main deck cargo door is also the largest in the industry. The aircraft fully complies with the ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ standards, and by the time it is commissioned, it is expected to be 50% SAF capable, with an ambition of reaching 100% by 2030. The assembly of test aircraft is currently in progress in Toulouse.
By the conclusion of October 2025, the newest widebody A350 Family had received a total of 1,445 orders from 63 different global customers. This includes 74 orders for the all-new A350F from 12 different customers.
What is the A350F’s cargo capacity and range?
The A350F can carry up to 111 tonnes and cover a range of 8,700 km.
What is the expected reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions with the A350F?
The A350F, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, is expected to offer up to a 40% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
How does the A350F stand in comparison to its competitors in terms of weight?
The A350F is made of over 70% advanced materials, making it lighter than its competitors by 46 tonnes. It also features the industry’s largest main deck cargo door.
