Airbus flies A350F freighter in challenge to Boeing
Airbus launched the maiden flight of its delayed A350F freighter, beginning nine months of certification trials ahead of planned service entry in 2027. Airbus has sold 115 A350Fs, compared with Boeing’s 81 777-8Fs.
1. Certification trials begin
The windowless A350F took off on a four-hour flight, starting nine months of certification trials. Airbus plans for the freighter to enter service in 2027 and compete with Boeing’s 777 series.
2. Freighter competition
Airbus has sold 115 A350Fs versus Boeing’s 81 777-8Fs. Airbus says its lighter airframe is cheaper to operate, while Boeing argues its larger freighters let airlines earn more revenue.
3. Air cargo demand
About one-third of global trade by value travels by air, with half of that carried on dedicated freighters. Cargo traffic grew 4.7% in the first half of this year, the fastest growth rate since the 2008 financial crisis, Airbus freighter marketing head Crawford Hamilton said.
