Air China Cargo has become the first A350F freighter customer in mainland China, after signing a purchase agreement for six of the new aircraft.

According to Airbus, this order brings the total backlog for the A350F to 74 aircraft from 12 different customers. The confirmation follows plans for the deal, which reportedly also includes options for four additional aircraft, being presented for shareholder approval in late October.

"The introduction of the A350F to our existing mixed cargo fleet contributes to efficiency in operation and maintenance," said Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo. He added that the A350F "will enhance Air China Cargo's capability to withstand risks in its long-term stable operation."

On behalf of the manufacturer, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, noted, "We are delighted to welcome Air China Cargo as the latest customer for the A350F." He highlighted that the aircraft "will bring new generation efficiency and performance as well as new levels of capacity and unprecedented loading flexibility."

The A350F in detail

The A350F is designed to carry a payload of up to 111 tonnes and cover a range of 8,700 km (4,700 nm). It is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, which the manufacturer states will offer up to a 40% reduction in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation freighters, such as the Boeing 747F, a type currently operated by Air China Cargo.

Built with over 70% advanced materials, the A350F will be 46 tonnes lighter than its direct competitor and features the industry's largest main deck cargo door.

Airbus emphasizes that it is the only freighter fully compliant with ICAO's (International Civil Aviation Organization) 2027 CO₂ standards. Upon entry into service, it will be capable of operating with 50% SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), with a target of 100% by 2030.

Air China Cargo's operation

Headquartered in Beijing, Air China Cargo is China's only cargo airline that carries the national flag. As of June 2025, it operates all-cargo aircraft in North, East, South, and Southwest China.

The company runs 25 all-cargo routes to key regions in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East, supplemented by belly capacity from the passenger network and over 1,500 global ground trucking routes.