Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific has placed an order for the Airbus A350 Freighter as it seeks to build its future cargo fleet.
The deal for six aircraft will see the A350F, whose wings are made in Broughton, North Wales, become central the airlines cargo operation.
When certified, the A359F will be able to carry 111 tonnes of cargo distances up to 4,700nm making an ideal fit for cargo operations from the Asia-Pacific region.
Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “As we move into 2024, our rebuild journey is gaining momentum. This order marks another major component in our investment for the future. It reflects Cathay’s confidence in the Hong Kong hub as we look ahead to the opportunities provided by the Three-Runway System.”
“These highly fuel-efficient, next-generation freighters will provide important additional cargo capacity, expand our global network and contribute to our sustainability leadership goals.”
One of the factors for Cathay Pacific choosing the Airbus freighter is the commonality it provides with its A350 airliner fleet of which it is one of the types biggest operators.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International said: “There’s a new standard in the cargo space and we are gratified that such a savvy global air-cargo operator as Cathay has joined the growing number of reference players in the air-freight industry selecting the A350F.”
“The aircraft will fit seamlessly with Cathay’s existing A350 passenger fleet, while lowering operating costs to a level never before seen in increasingly competitive cargo markets. At the same time, it will bring a very significant reduction in carbon emissions, contributing immediately to sustainability goals.”
The A350F has the largest cargo deck in the industry is powered by Derby, England made Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines giving a 40% fuel saving compared to the Boeing 747F.
