Airbus launches A350F cargo jet, aiming to capture half of global freight market

On Tuesday morning, Airbus conducted the first flight of its purpose-built A350F freighter from its Toulouse facility, completing a four-hour inaugural sortie. This event launches a nine-month flight-test campaign that will involve two aircraft and aim for roughly 400 hours of testing. Upon successful completion, the company expects the European Union Aviation Safety Agency to grant certification, paving the way for initial deliveries slated for the latter half of 2027.

The A350F enters the long-haul, high-capacity cargo segment, a space where Airbus previously offered only converted A330 and A321 models. By adding a dedicated freighter, Airbus intends to challenge Boeing’s long-standing dominance and capture about half of the global air-freight market.