Cathay Group Places Follow-on Order for Two Airbus A350F Freighters
Cathay Group has announced an additional order for two Airbus A350F aircraft, accelerating its fleet modernization and environmental sustainability efforts.
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- 📰 Published: May 28, 2026 at 04:52
- 🔍 Collected: May 27, 2026 at 20:10
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Airbus has confirmed that the Hong Kong-based Cathay Group has ordered two additional A350F freighters, bringing its total firm orders for the type to eight aircraft. These freighters will be operated by Cathay Cargo to enhance operational efficiency across its extensive global network.
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Group, stated: "We are pleased to expand our freighter fleet with this additional order. This investment strengthens our cargo network at our home hub and provides more options for our customers. This strategic move reflects our confidence in long-term growth and supports Cathay Cargo's ambition to be the world's leading air cargo carrier."
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial Aircraft, commented: "Cathay's continued selection of the A350F is a testament to the aircraft's next-generation capabilities and efficiency. The A350F offers unparalleled commonality with Cathay's existing Airbus fleet, ensuring a seamless entry into service while accelerating the group's decarbonization goals. We are delighted to further our partnership with Cathay."
Designed as the world's most advanced freighter, the A350F features a range of up to 8,700 kilometers and a payload capacity of 111 tonnes. Composed of over 70% advanced materials, it is 46 tonnes lighter than competing models. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350F reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 20% compared to previous generations. It remains the only freighter meeting the 2027 ICAO CO2 emissions standards. Furthermore, it is capable of flying with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry into service, with a goal of 100% SAF capability by 2030.
As of late April 2026, the A350F has secured 101 firm orders from 14 customers worldwide.
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Group, stated: "We are pleased to expand our freighter fleet with this additional order. This investment strengthens our cargo network at our home hub and provides more options for our customers. This strategic move reflects our confidence in long-term growth and supports Cathay Cargo's ambition to be the world's leading air cargo carrier."
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial Aircraft, commented: "Cathay's continued selection of the A350F is a testament to the aircraft's next-generation capabilities and efficiency. The A350F offers unparalleled commonality with Cathay's existing Airbus fleet, ensuring a seamless entry into service while accelerating the group's decarbonization goals. We are delighted to further our partnership with Cathay."
Designed as the world's most advanced freighter, the A350F features a range of up to 8,700 kilometers and a payload capacity of 111 tonnes. Composed of over 70% advanced materials, it is 46 tonnes lighter than competing models. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350F reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 20% compared to previous generations. It remains the only freighter meeting the 2027 ICAO CO2 emissions standards. Furthermore, it is capable of flying with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry into service, with a goal of 100% SAF capability by 2030.
As of late April 2026, the A350F has secured 101 firm orders from 14 customers worldwide.
FAQ
How many A350F freighters has Cathay Group ordered in total?
With this additional order of two aircraft, the total number of A350F freighters ordered by Cathay Group stands at eight.
What are the environmental advantages of the A350F?
The A350F reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 20% compared to existing freighters and is the only model currently meeting the 2027 ICAO emissions standards.
What is the cargo capacity and range of the A350F?
The aircraft can carry a payload of up to 111 tonnes and has a flight range of up to 8,700 kilometers.