At the Singapore Air Show, Airbus confirmed orders from Singapore Airlines (SIA) for seven Airbus A350 freighters. Etihad Airways became the freighter’s newest customer by signing a letter of intent (LoI) for seven aircraft.
The Airbus A350 freighters are back in the spotlight at an international event, having been unveiled at the Dubai Air Show in 2021. The aircraft meets the impending wave of large freighter replacements and ICAO CO2 emissions environmental requirements that come into force from 2027.
To date, the A350F has secured firm orders and commitments for 29 aircraft from 5 customers.
The A350Fs ordered will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, enabling them to consume 20% less fuel and emissions than previous-generation freighter aircraft. It will have a 109-ton capacity and a large main deck cargo door the length of the fuselage, allowing optimized capacity for industry-standard pallets and containers.
The order
The Singapore Airlines order will replace the airline’s existing fleet of seven 747-400s (F) from the fourth quarter of 2025. Joining if to its fleet of 51 Airbus A350-900s and seven A350-900 Ultra Long Range.
«This order underlines the importance of the cargo market for SIA Group. The introduction of the A350F will enhance our capabilities in this key sector, ensuring that we are prepared for the growth opportunities that will arise in the coming years,» said Goh Choon Phong, chief executive officer of Singapore Airlines.
«These new-generation aircraft will substantially increase our operational efficiency and reduce our fuel consumption, which will contribute significantly to the success of our long-term decarbonization goals.» Concluded the CEO.
«Singapore Airlines is the world’s largest A350 operator and will now become the first to fly the new cargo variant. Consumption patterns have changed dramatically in recent times, generating increased demand for fast air cargo transportation. With the A350F, SIA will be well-positioned to respond to this huge market potential in a cost-effective and sustainable manner,» said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief International Officer.
A350F launch customer in the Middle East
Etihad Airways’ letter of intent for seven A350F freighters makes it the launch customer for the model in the Middle East. The aircraft will share the existing fleet of five A350-1000 passenger aircraft. It also selected Airbus Flight Hour Services (FHS) to support its entire A350 fleet.
«Etihad is pleased to expand our relationship with Airbus to include this remarkable aircraft as part of our cargo fleet for the future. As our cargo operations continue to outperform and we work towards a more sustainable future based on the world’s youngest and most fuel-efficient fleet,» said Tony Douglas, Etihad Aviation Group chief executive officer.
It currently has five Boeing 777s (F) to meet existing cargo demand.
