Airbus A350F Takes Flight in Major Challenge to Boeing’s Freighter Dominance
TOULOUSE, FRANCE — Airbus has taken a major step into the global air cargo market after its new A350F freighter completed its maiden flight, marking the beginning of an extensive flight-test and certification programme for the next-generation cargo aircraft.
The first A350F test aircraft, MSN700, took off from Toulouse on 29 September and remained airborne for 4 hours and 10 minutes, reaching an altitude of 25,000 feet. Airbus says the initial flight focused on evaluating the aircraft’s handling characteristics, engines and key systems.
The milestone brings Airbus closer to entering a market that has historically been dominated by Boeing, with aircraft such as the 777 Freighter, 767 Freighter and 747 Freighter playing a major role in global cargo operations. The A350F represents Airbus’ first purpose-built large freighter designed to directly compete in this segment.
A new generation of cargo aircraft
Based on the highly successful A350 family, the A350F has been designed specifically for long-haul freight operations. Airbus says the aircraft can carry up to 111 tonnes of payload and has a range of up to 8,700 kilometres.
More than 70% of the aircraft is made from advanced materials, helping reduce its maximum take-off weight. Airbus also says the A350F is expected to deliver up to 40% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation freighters of similar capability.
The aircraft features what Airbus describes as the largest main-deck cargo door in the industry, measuring 4.3 metres wide and 3.15 metres high, allowing operators to load and unload large cargo efficiently.
115 aircraft already ordered
The A350F is already attracting significant interest from cargo operators. As of the end of August 2026, Airbus had recorded 115 orders from 14 disclosed customers.
Reuters reports that the order total puts Airbus ahead of Boeing’s current orders for its upcoming 777-8 Freighter, although the two aircraft are aimed at somewhat different operating requirements within the large-freighter market.
Certification campaign begins
The maiden flight is only the beginning. Airbus will now conduct an extensive flight-test programme using two test aircraft, with the campaign expected to run for roughly nine to ten months and around 400 flight hours before certification.
The second test aircraft, MSN701, is already in the final stages of assembly and will be used for additional system, environmental and cargo-related testing.
Airbus is targeting first customer deliveries in the second half of 2027, subject to successful completion of the certification programme.
The A350F’s arrival comes as global air cargo continues to evolve, with demand for fast international freight driven by e-commerce, high-value goods, semiconductor shipments and other time-sensitive cargo.
For Airbus, the first flight represents more than another aircraft milestone. It signals the company’s ambition to establish a stronger position in the large-freighter market and give cargo airlines a new-generation alternative as older freighter fleets reach replacement age.
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