Flag carrier strengthens cargo capabilities with seven A350F aircraft
Korean Air has become the newest customer for the Airbus A350F, the world’s only all-new large freighter, following the conversion of seven existing A350-1000 passenger aircraft orders into the cargo variant.
“Korean Air is one of the world’s largest cargo operators,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of Commercial Aircraft. “The decision to add the A350F to its fleet is a significant endorsement of the aircraft’s unique capabilities. The A350F will bring Korean Air the most efficient solution in the large freighter segment.”
Currently in development, the A350F is designed to carry up to 111 tonnes of payload and fly up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km). Equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, it delivers up to 40% lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation freighters with similar payload-range performance.
The aircraft features the largest main deck cargo door in the industry and a lightweight airframe made from over 70% advanced materials, giving it a 46-tonne lighter take-off weight than its nearest competitor. It is also the only freighter designed to fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO? emissions standards, taking effect in 2027.
With this move, Korean Air’s total A350 order rises to 33 aircraft — including 20 A350-1000s, seven A350Fs, and six A350-900s, two of which have already been delivered. The airline also holds orders for 39 Airbus A321neo single-aisle aircraft, supporting both its passenger and cargo growth strategies.
As of September 2025, the A350 Family had accumulated 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 65 A350Fs from 10 cargo airlines and one lessor.