Photo: Shutterstock Yesterday, May 26, 2026, Airbus announced that Air China Cargo ordered four more Airbus A350F freighters, bringing its total to 10 aircraft.
Today, May 27, Hong Kong’s Cathay Group has confirmed a new order with Airbus for two additional A350F freighters, raising its total commitment for the next-generation cargo aircraft to eight units. The aircraft will be operated by Cathay Cargo and are expected to enhance efficiency across the airline’s global freight network.
The move reflects Cathay’s ongoing strategy to modernize its cargo fleet and strengthen its position in the competitive air freight market, particularly on long-haul international routes from its Hong Kong hub.
Cathay Group Chief Executive Ronald Lam: “We are pleased to further strengthen our fleet with these additional A350F freighters that will provide greater connectivity at our home hub and more choices for our customers. This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier.”
Airbus welcomed the renewed commitment, highlighting the aircraft’s performance and environmental benefits.
“Cathay’s continued endorsement of the A350F is another powerful signal that the A350F brings a new generation of freighter capacity and efficiency. The A350F will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing Airbus fleet with unrivaled operational and technical commonality, while accelerating the airline’s decarbonization journey. We could not be more excited to grow this partnership,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
The A350F is designed as Airbus’s next-generation cargo aircraft, offering a payload capacity of up to 111 tonnes and a range of around 8,700 kilometers. Built with more than 70 percent advanced materials, the aircraft is significantly lighter than competing models and is expected to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 20 percent compared to previous generation freighters.
The aircraft is also compatible with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel at entry into service, with plans to reach full SAF capability by 2030, aligning with broader industry decarbonisation goals.
Airbus says the A350F has already secured 101 orders from 14 customers worldwide, positioning it as one of the most in demand next generation freighter programmes in development.
With Cathay’s latest order, the airline strengthens its long term cargo strategy while reinforcing its partnership with Airbus as global demand for efficient air freight capacity continues to grow.