Published: September 29, 2026
Summary
Airbus completed the first flight of its new A350F freighter, marking a major milestone in the company's effort to challenge Boeing's longstanding dominance of the large commercial cargo-aircraft market. The aircraft completed an approximately four-hour maiden flight from Toulouse, beginning a flight-test and certification campaign expected to lead to entry into service in the second half of 2027.
The A350F is particularly significant because Boeing has historically dominated purpose-built large freighters with aircraft including the 747, 767 and 777. Airbus has already accumulated 115 orders for the A350F, compared with 81 orders reported for Boeing's forthcoming 777-8F. The competition will intensify as cargo carriers replace aging aircraft and seek more fuel-efficient fleets.
Major Media Coverage
Reuters: Airbus flies A350F freighter in challenge to Boeing
Story available behind paywall.
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/airbus-stages-maiden-flight-new-a350f-freighter-2026-09-29/
Additional Coverage
Aerospace Global News: Airbus A350F takes its maiden flight to reshape the large cargo aircraft market
https://aerospaceglobalnews.com/news/airbus-a350f-first-flight-freighter/