Airbus is conducting rigorous systems ground tests as it gears up for a nine-month campaign of flight tests for the all-new A350 freighter beginning next October with hopes of getting the first aircraft in service by the end of 2027. Airbus has passenger-to-freighter conversion programs for smaller aircraft, but until 2021 had never participated in the large freighter market. It currently has 82 firm orders from 13 airlines and leasing companies, compared to more than 50 orders at Boeing for the next-gene ...

Core Insights - Air China Cargo intends to sign a purchase agreement with Airbus for six A350 freighter aircraft, marking it as the first mainland Chinese carrier to acquire this new model [1] - The total value of the deal for the six firm orders and four options is estimated at $4.65 billion, with significant discounts negotiated by Air China Cargo [1][2] Company Strategy - The transaction aligns with Air China Cargo's development plan and market demand, aiming to optimize fleet structure and long-term capacity replenishment [2] - The new aircraft will enhance the company's freighter capacity structure, catering to market and customer needs, thus contributing to stable long-term operations [2] Current Fleet - Air China Cargo currently operates a fleet of 24 freighters, which includes eight A330-200Fs, three Boeing 747-400Fs, and 13 Boeing 777Fs [2] Aircraft Specifications - The A350F is designed to carry up to 120 tons with a maximum range of 4,700 nautical miles and features the largest main deck cargo door in the industry [5] - The aircraft is expected to be 20% more fuel-efficient than the Boeing 777 and older Boeing 747-400 freighters, with a weight reduction of 50 tons compared to the Boeing 777X freighter [4]