FAA grants exemptions for Airbus A350F freighter entry into service

“The design standards provided in the Model A350-1041F airplane’s flight deck and flight deck emergency exit are all consistent with the intent of the rule,” Airbus stated.

The FAA analysis noted that passenger exits were primarily considered under current rules but acknowledged differences for flight crew exits due to fuselage curvature and indirect paths from exits. “Of course, more sophisticated features such as cameras or optical scopes could be installed. However, these go beyond the intent of the requirement, assuming a flight deck window is available and has a typical field of view,” said FAA representatives.

The FAA agreed with Airbus's assessment that an exemption was in public interest due to redesign costs and additional weight potentially affecting payload capacity. They are considering amending requirements related to flight deck exits in line with similar European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.

On November 25, another exemption was granted concerning floor rail alignment requirements for attaching seating devices during tests. Airbus pointed out past exemptions from floor warpage testing requirements given by FAA without any safety issues arising on larger jets.

In May 2023, Airbus announced a delay in A350F’s entry into service until early 2026. While no U.S.-based airlines have ordered this model yet, international carriers like Air France, Cathay Pacific, CMA CGM Air Cargo, Etihad Airways, Martinair (KLM’s cargo subsidiary), Silk Way West Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Starlux Airlines, Turkish Airlines have placed orders alongside seven units secured by Air Lease Corporation (ALC).