Air China Cargo expands A350F order book to 10 freighters

Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for four additional A350F freighters, taking its total order for the aircraft type to 10. The airline had previously ordered six A350F freighters in November 2025 as part of efforts to strengthen its cargo fleet.

The additional order is aimed at further optimising Air China Cargo’s fleet structure and expanding transport capacity to better meet demand in the international air cargo market, according to Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo. The company said the move is expected to support its long-term stable development.

Airbus welcomed the decision, with Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business, saying the increased order reflects Air China Cargo’s confidence in Airbus products and reinforces the A350F’s position as a next-generation freighter.

Air China Cargo began introducing Airbus freighters at the end of 2023 and currently operates a fleet of eight A330-200P2F aircraft. The A350F is expected to join the fleet in the near future and complement the A330-200P2F freighters by supporting long-haul and medium-to-long-haul routes.

The A350F is designed to meet the changing needs of the global air freight market, offering a range of up to 8,700 kilometres and a payload capacity of up to 111 tonnes. Airbus said the aircraft is made from more than 70% advanced materials and is 46 tonnes lighter than competing aircraft.

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft is expected to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 20% compared with previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. Airbus said the A350F is the only freighter fully meeting ICAO’s 2027 CO₂ emission standards and can operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel at entry into service, with a target of reaching 100% capability by 2030.

As of the end of April 2026, the A350F had recorded 101 orders from 14 customers.