Air China Cargo is set to firm up an additional four Airbus A350F freighters, converting options secured in a previous agreement into confirmed orders.
The move will increase the airline’s total commitment for the type to 10 aircraft. Air China Cargo had initially ordered six A350Fs in 2025, becoming the first mainland Chinese customer for the new-generation freighter.
The carrier said it intends to sign a supplementary agreement to formalize the additional units, citing the need to expand cargo capacity and accelerate fleet renewal. “This transaction aligns with the company’s development plan and market demand, and will help optimise the company’s fleet structure,” the airline said in a statement.
Deliveries of the initial six aircraft are scheduled between 2029 and 2031, while the newly added four are expected to arrive in 2032 and 2033. The revised agreement also includes options for a further six A350Fs, which can be exercised by the end of next year.
Air China Cargo currently operates a fleet of widebody freighters including Boeing 777F, Boeing 747-400F and Airbus A330-200 converted for cargo use. The introduction of the A350F is intended to support replacement of older aircraft and improve operating efficiency.
The A350F is designed to carry up to 111 tonnes of payload over a range of around 8,700 km, with Airbus targeting lower fuel burn and emissions compared with earlier-generation freighters. The aircraft is also being developed to meet ICAO CO₂ standards set for 2027 and to operate with increasing proportions of sustainable aviation fuel.
Development of the program is progressing, with Airbus conducting ground tests on the main cargo deck and recently receiving the large side cargo door for installation on the first test aircraft. The prototype is expected to make its first flight in 2026 and will be followed by a second test aircraft.
