Airbus expects to deliver its first A350F in 2026, but Etihad Airways has already decided to increase its orders for the next-generation freighter.
According to Stanislas Brun, vice president of the carrier’s cargo division, three more jets have been ordered.
The Middle Eastern carrier had ordered seven A350Fs in 2022 and reserved three production slots, which have now been exercised, the executive told FreightWaves.
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This will give Etihad 10 A350Fs in the future, which will operate alongside five Boeing 777Fs currently in service.
Program slightly delayed
The A350F was launched by Airbus to capture the large freighter market, a segment dominated by Boeing.
A combination of the A350-900 and the A350-1000, the freighter will be able to transport up to 111 tons over distances of 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km).
Airbus promises 20% lower emissions than the 77F, an aircraft that will cease production in 2028 due to environmental issues established by the ICAO.
The program, however, has had a slight delay in its schedule. Previously scheduled to enter service in 2025, the A350F should debut at the end of 2026, according to the manufacturer.
As of October, there were 55 firm orders, which will therefore reach 58 aircraft with the addition of the new Etihad aircraft.
