Air China Cargo has ordered six Airbus A350F aircraft, becoming the first mainland Chinese customer to introduce Airbus’s newest dedicated freighter into its fleet. With this decision, the national cargo carrier is expanding its long-haul capacity and signalling a stronger shift toward efficient and sustainable long-term operations.
Air China Cargo Vice President Wang Hongyan said the new aircraft will bring clear operational advantages, especially within a fleet that already includes multiple freighter types. According to Wang, the A350F will enhance the airline’s ability to operate reliably and strengthen its resilience over the long term. Airbus emphasised that the carrier can expect a new generation of efficiency and flexibility. Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales for Commercial Aircraft, noted that the A350F will provide greater payload, improved loading options and significant fuel savings, all while integrating smoothly into existing operations.
Headquartered in Beijing, Air China Cargo is the country’s only national-flag cargo airline. Since June 2025 it has operated dedicated freighter flights across North, East, South and Southwest China and maintains a network of 25 all-cargo routes connecting the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East. The airline’s global reach is further expanded by more than 1,500 international trucking routes.
The A350F, currently in final assembly of its first test aircraft in Toulouse, is the most advanced freighter on the market. It can carry up to 111 tonnes of cargo over 8,700 kilometres and is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. Compared with older-generation freighters, it will consume up to 40 percent less fuel and produce equally lower CO₂ emissions. More than 70 percent of its structure is made from composites and other advanced materials, making the aircraft roughly 46 tonnes lighter than competing models. It will also feature the largest main-deck cargo door in the industry and fully comply with ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ standards.
Upon entry into service, the A350F will be certified to operate using up to 50 percent sustainable aviation fuel, with a target of reaching 100 percent capability by 2030. As of the end of October 2025, the Airbus A350 family had accumulated 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 74 orders for the new A350F from 12 operators.
