A350F at ADEX 2025. Photo: Flying Camera / Shutterstock.com Airbus is preparing for the maiden flight of its new A350F freighter, with the company announcing that the aircraft is scheduled to take to the skies on September 29, 2026.
According to Airbus, the first flight is planned for 10:20 a.m. GMT+2 on September 29. The event will also be broadcast live on the company’s X account, giving aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to watch the aircraft’s first flight.
Airbus cautioned that the planned event remains subject to operational requirements, including weather conditions, meaning the timing could still change.
The A350F is Airbus’ new-generation dedicated freighter, based on the A350-1000 platform but featuring a modified fuselage and systems specifically designed for cargo operations.
Airbus says the aircraft requires its own flight-test campaign because its unique configuration creates different aerodynamic characteristics from the passenger versions of the A350.
The A350F is designed to carry up to 111 tonnes of payload and has a maximum range of about 4,700 nautical miles, or 8,700 kilometers, at a 109-tonne structural payload.
One of its most visible features is its large main-deck cargo door. Airbus says the opening measures 4.3 meters across and is designed to handle large and heavy cargo that can be difficult to load onto other widebody freighters.
The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines and uses more than 70% advanced materials in its airframe. Airbus says the A350F is designed to meet the latest ICAO CO₂ emissions standards that will apply to newly produced aircraft from the end of 2027.
The first flight follows months of preparation, including ground testing and Airbus' Virtual First Flight program.
Airbus says the virtual program involved 13 simulator sessions of around five hours each, using real aircraft avionics systems test benches. The first flight crew consists of two pilots, one test flight engineer and two flight test engineers.
The flight will mark the beginning of a planned 400-hour flight-test campaign as Airbus works toward certification of the new freighter.
The A350F is currently under development, with Airbus documenting its progress toward the first flight and eventual entry into service.