Cathay Group has placed an order with Airbus for two additional A350F freighters, bringing the Hong Kong-based airline’s total commitment to eight of the new-generation cargo aircraft.
The order, announced on May 27, 2026, will see the aircraft operated by Cathay Cargo, the group’s freight division.
Growing the freighter fleet
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive of Cathay Group, declared that the additional aircraft will strengthen connectivity at the airline’s home hub and offer more options for cargo customers.
“This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier,” Lam said.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, suggested that Cathay’s continued commitment to the A350F signals confidence in the aircraft’s capabilities.
“The A350F will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing Airbus fleet with unrivalled operational and technical commonality, while accelerating the airline’s decarbonization journey,” de Saint-Exupéry said.
The A350F: a new generation freighter
Airbus has positioned the A350F as the most advanced cargo aircraft on the market. The freighter has a range of up to 8,700 kilometers with a payload of up to 111 tonnes, making it suitable for long-haul international routes.
Built with more than 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than competing freighter aircraft. It is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines and delivers up to 20% lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions when compared to previous-generation freighters with similar payload and range.
The aircraft is the only new freighter that meets ICAO’s 2027 CO2 emission standards in full. It can operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel upon entry into service, with Airbus targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030.
As part of the A350 widebody family, the freighter shares a high level of commonality with A350 passenger aircraft, offering operational benefits for carriers already flying the type.
As of the end of April 2026, the A350F had accumulated 101 firm orders from 14 customers worldwide.
