Cathay Group has strengthened its long-term cargo growth strategy with a firm order for two additional Airbus A350F freighters, increasing its total commitment for the next-generation cargo aircraft to eight units. The new aircraft will be operated by Cathay Cargo and are expected to support the airline’s continued expansion across international freight markets while enhancing efficiency throughout its global network.
The latest order underscores Cathay Group’s confidence in long-term air cargo demand and its commitment to investing in advanced fleet technologies that improve operational performance and environmental sustainability. The A350F has been developed to meet the changing requirements of the global freight industry, offering enhanced payload capability, extended range, and lower emissions compared with previous-generation cargo aircraft.
Ronald Lam, Chief Executive of the Cathay Group, said the additional aircraft will strengthen connectivity through Hong Kong while providing greater flexibility for customers across the carrier’s cargo network. He noted that the investment aligns with Cathay Cargo’s ambition to remain among the world’s leading air freight operators while positioning the business for sustained future growth.
Airbus welcomed the expanded commitment, highlighting the aircraft’s efficiency advantages and compatibility with Cathay’s existing Airbus fleet. According to Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, the order reflects growing industry confidence in the A350F’s ability to deliver a new benchmark for freighter performance while supporting airline sustainability objectives.
Designed specifically for long-haul freight operations, the A350F can transport payloads of up to 111 tonnes and operate routes of up to 8,700 kilometers. The aircraft incorporates more than 70 percent advanced materials in its structure, contributing to a significantly lighter airframe compared with competing freighter models.
Powering the aircraft are Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, which are expected to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 20 percent compared with earlier-generation aircraft offering similar payload and range capabilities. The A350F is also designed to comply fully with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s 2027 carbon dioxide emissions standards, making it the only new-build freighter currently positioned to meet those requirements at entry into service.
The aircraft can operate using up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel, with Airbus targeting full compatibility with 100 percent SAF by 2030. In addition, the freighter shares significant operational commonality with passenger variants of the A350 family, enabling airlines to benefit from streamlined maintenance, training, and fleet management. As of the end of April 2026, Airbus had secured 101 firm orders for the A350F from 14 customers worldwide, reinforcing strong market interest in the aircraft as operators modernize cargo fleets and pursue more sustainable aviation solutions.
