Air China Cargo orders six Airbus A350F freighters, becomes first mainland Chinese customer

Air China Cargo has signed a purchase agreement for six Airbus A350F freighters, becoming the first operator in mainland China to order the new-generation aircraft.

Air China Cargo states that the addition of the A350F will enhance operational efficiency, improve maintenance commonality, and strengthen the airline’s long-term resilience. Airbus highlighted the aircraft’s capacity, performance, and loading flexibility, noting it will integrate smoothly into the carrier’s expanding cargo operations.

Headquartered in Beijing and serving as China’s flag-carrying cargo airline, Air China Cargo operates across North, East, South and Southwest China, with 25 dedicated freighter routes worldwide and more than 1,500 global trucking links supporting its belly and freighter network.

The A350F, capable of carrying 111 tonnes over 8,700 km, features Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines and delivers up to 40% lower fuel burn and CO? emissions compared to older freighters. Built from over 70% advanced materials, it is 46 tonnes lighter than competing aircraft and includes the largest main deck cargo door in the industry.

The A350F is also the only freighter fully meeting ICAO’s 2027 CO? standards and will be 50% SAF-capable at entry into service, with a path to 100% SAF by 2030. Assembly of the first test aircraft in Toulouse is already underway.

As of October 2025, the Airbus A350 Family has accumulated 1,445 orders, including 74 A350Fs from 12 customers.