Airbus A350F Makes First Flight

Freighter is intended to offer 20 percent lower fuel burn and carbon emissions versus aircraft it is designed to replace.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at 04:00 PM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Airbus’ first A350F test aircraft completed its maiden flight Tuesday in France. [Credit: Airbus]

Key Takeaways:

Airbus's A350F freighter (MSN700) successfully completed its maiden flight, initiating a multi-month test campaign aimed at certification and deliveries in the second half of 2027.
The A350F is promoted as a "game-changer" due to its projected 40% lower fuel burn and carbon emissions compared to current freighters, a 4,700 nm range with a 111-metric-ton payload, and a massive, versatile cargo door.
Despite facing delays in its entry into service (now targeting late 2027), the A350F has garnered 115 orders from 14 customers, securing a 59% market share in the large freighter category, and is poised to compete with Boeing's 777-8F.

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Airbus’ next-generation A350F freighter, which the manufacturer confirmed to be under development in July 2021, has finally conducted its maiden flight.

The aircraft, registered F-WXLD and referred to as MSN700 by Airbus, is the first of two test aircraft the manufacturer will use for a more-than-nine-month test campaign. It aims to rack up more than 400 flight hours before moving into formal certification in 2027, with deliveries expected in the second half of the year.