A Giant, Next-generation Airbus Took To The Skies For The First Time

• 29.09.2026, 14:21

The A350F is expected to challenge Boeing in the large-cargo transport market.

The new-generation Airbus A350F cargo aircraft took to the skies for the first time, marking an important milestone in the European aircraft manufacturer’s ambitious program. The company posted a video of the flight on its YouTube channel.

“Today, the A350F reaches one of the most eagerly awaited milestones of the program—taking to the skies for the first time in Toulouse, officially kicking off a 400-hour flight test campaign,” Airbus noted.

The A350F is based on the A350 family. The aircraft is equipped with state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. According to Airbus, the A350F can carry up to 111 metric tons of payload and has a range of up to 8,700 km.

One of its key design features is the extra-wide cargo doors on the main deck, made of carbon fiber. Their width allows for the loading not only of standard containers and pallets, but even of large, fully assembled aircraft engines.

The A350F’s design includes a separate area for crew members and accompanying personnel, located behind the cockpit. Large windows are installed on both sides of this area. This is particularly important during transport, when accompanying personnel may be present in this compartment.