Air TransportAir China Cargo orders six Airbus A350F, becoming its first customer in mainland China
Air China Cargo has signed a contract for the purchase of six Airbus A350F freighters, becoming the first company in mainland China to order the new model. The announcement formalizes the intention previously communicated by the company to investors.
The order reinforces the fleet modernization movement and positions Air China Cargo as a pioneer in the adoption of the A350F in the Chinese market. The acquisition occurs in a context of increasing demand for operational efficiency and more stringent environmental goals.
Air China Cargo has been active in all major regions of the country since June. The company highlighted that the incorporation of the A350F contributes to gains in operational and maintenance efficiency.
“The introduction of the A350F to our existing mixed cargo fleet contributes to efficiency in operation and maintenance,” said Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo.
Currently, Air China operates with Boeing 777F, 747-400F, and A330-200 as its main freighter aircraft.
The Airbus A350F offers a capacity of up to 111 tons and a range of 8,700 km. The model provides a reduction of up to 40% in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation freighters, in addition to being produced with over 70% advanced materials and being 46 tons lighter than direct competitors.
Designed to fully meet the ICAO CO₂ emissions standards for 2027, the A350F will enter service capable of operating with up to 50% sustainable fuel (SAF), with a target of 100% by 2030. According to Airbus, the assembly of the test aircraft in Toulouse is underway.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, highlighted the significance of the customer for the program: “We are delighted to welcome Air China Cargo as the latest customer for the A350F.”
By the end of October, the A350 family had accumulated 1,445 orders from 63 global customers, including 74 orders for the A350F from 12 operators.
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