Air China Cargo Signs Purchase Agreement for Six Airbus A350F Freighters

Airbus has today announced that Air China Cargo has ordered six new A350F Freighters, becoming the first customer to order the aircraft type in Mainland China.

Air China Cargo Airbus A350F Freighter Rendering - Courtesy Airbus

On Friday (November 14, 2025), Airbus announced that Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement for six Airbus A350F aircraft, becoming the first customer to order the all-new freighter in Mainland China.  Engineered as the world's most advanced freighter, the A350F has been designed to meet the evolving needs of the global air cargo market.  The aircraft will carry up to 111 tons, offering a range of up to 4,698 nautical miles (8,700 km).  Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will deliver up to a 40 percent reduction in fuel use and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation aircraft. 

In Friday’s announcement, Air China Cargo’s Vice President, Wang Hongyan, said,

“The introduction of the A350F to our existing mixed cargo fleet contributes to efficiency in operation and maintenance.  The A350F will enhance Air China Cargo’s capability to withstand risks in its long-term stable operation.”

Also commenting on the new A350F order, Airbus’ EVP Sales – Commercial Aircraft, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, added,

“We are delighted to welcome Air China Cargo as the latest customer for the A350F. The A350F will bring new generation efficiency and performance as well as new levels of capacity and unprecedented loading flexibility.  We look forward to ensuring a seamless integration into Air China Cargo’s operation.”

Headquartered in Beijing, Air China Cargo is China’s only cargo airline that carries the national flag.  Since June 2025, the airline has been operating all cargo aircraft in North China, East China, South China, and Southwest China.  The carrier has also opened 25 all-cargo routes to major regions and cities around the world, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East.  Air China Cargo’s dedicated freighter and passenger aircraft belly-hold network is also supported by over 1,500 global ground trucking routes.

Built with over 70 percent advanced materials, the A350F will be 46 tons lighter than competitor aircraft, and will feature the industry’s largest main deck cargo door.  Additionally, it is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO's 2027 CO₂ standards and by the time it enters service it will be 50 percent SAF capable, with a target for 100% by 2030. The assembly of test aircraft in Toulouse, France is currently underway.  As of October 31, 2025, the latest generation widebody A350 Family had won 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 74 for the all-new A350F Freighter from 12 customers.

Source: Airbus