Airbus faces delays but secures orders for next-generation A350 freighter

The acquisition was supposed to close in Q3 2025 but is now expected in Q4 due to regulatory approval delays. Airbus stated that this move would “ensure stability of supply for its commercial aircraft programs through a more sustainable way forward, both operationally and financially, for key Airbus work packages.”

Despite recent progress—such as finalizing major components like wingsets and stabilizers—the delays have resulted in some order cancellations and reductions. Air Lease Corporation canceled its seven-aircraft commitment due to production delays and uncertainty in the cargo market. Air France-KLM Group also reduced its order from eight aircraft (four each for Air France and Martinair) down to six after reviewing their fleet strategy.

Several carriers continue supporting the A350F program: Etihad Airways and STARLUX have each ordered ten aircraft; CMA CGM Air Cargo has eight on order; Cathay Pacific six; Singapore Airlines seven; Silk Way West two; Turkish Airlines five; AviLease ten; and MNG Airlines two.

The appeal of the A350F lies partly in its efficiency gains over existing models: it uses composite materials extensively throughout its structure and promises around 20% lower fuel burn than Boeing’s 777F or up to 40% less than a 747-400F on a per-tonne basis. It offers higher cargo volume—about three-and-a-half more main-deck pallets than a Boeing 777F—and can carry up to roughly 111 tonnes of payload.

Competition remains strong as Boeing develops its own next-generation model: the Boeing 777-8F, which already has firm orders from major airlines such as Qatar Airways (34), Cargolux (10), Lufthansa (7), China Airlines (4), ANA (2), and Silk Way West (2).

With environmental regulations tightening and older fleets needing replacement worldwide, both manufacturers are looking ahead at an evolving market landscape that could reshape global air freight capacity over coming decades.

"The A350F is the perfect choice for STARLUX, offering a similar payload-range capability as previous generation freighters, but with very significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions," said Glenn Chai, CEO of STARLUX.