Airbus is preparing to enter the freighter aircraft market with its A350F, a purpose-built cargo jet designed to meet future emissions standards and challenge Boeing's dominance, reports Montreal's Simple Flying.

The air cargo industry is shifting toward sustainability and efficiency, prompting operators to phase out ageing aircraft like the Boeing 747 and McDonnell Douglas DC-11. Airbus aims to fill the gap with the A350F, which offers 40 per cent lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions than legacy freighters.

Boeing has long led the cargo sector with models such as the 747-400F, 747-8F and 777F, supported by passenger-to-freighter conversions of the 737 and 767. Airbus, by contrast, has struggled to gain traction, with its A300, A310 and A330-200F seeing limited success.

The A350F is based on the A350-1000 and will be certified under EASA and FAA regulations. It is designed to comply with ICAO's 2027 CO2 standards, featuring a carbon fibre fuselage and Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Airbus initially planned to launch the A350F in 2025, but supply chain issues delayed entry into service to 2027. CMA CGM Air Cargo replaced Air Lease Corporation as the launch customer after the delay.

The A350F can carry 30 pallets on its main deck and 40 LD3 containers below. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 703,000 pounds, a range of 4,700 nautical miles and a cruise speed of 488 knots.

The cockpit features integrated modular avionics, head-up displays and airport navigation systems. Over half the aircraft is made from composite materials to reduce weight and improve efficiency.

Major airlines ordering the A350F include Singapore Airlines, Air France��LM, Etihad Cargo, Turkish Airlines and Cathay Pacific Cargo. Leasing firms such as AviLease have also placed orders, with Airbus securing over 50 commitments.

The A350F marks Airbus's strategic re-entry into the cargo market, offering a modern alternative to ageing freighters and positioning itself as a serious competitor to Boeing's long-standing dominance.