Airbus A350F challenges Boeing's grip on large freighter market

The commercial aviation sector is witnessing a significant shift as the Airbus A350F makes formidable strides into the heavy freight sector, a domain historically dominated by its American rival, Boeing. Backed by robust order books and impressive technical specifications, the new European widebody freighter is rapidly emerging as a compelling alternative for global cargo operators seeking long-term operational efficiency.

According to data from IBA Insight, the aviation intelligence platform of the leading market advisory company IBA, the A350F programme has successfully secured 115 firm orders from 14 disclosed customers. This represents a substantial early foothold, particularly when compared with the 89 firm orders from nine disclosed customers currently held by its closest new-production competitor, the Boeing 777-8F. Strikingly, the A350F’s customer base includes major industry players such as Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Atlas Air, and Silk Way West Airlines. Several of these carriers have traditionally operated major or exclusively Boeing freighter fleets, underscoring a strategic pivot in operator preferences and a remarkable commercial victory for Airbus.

Financially, the A350F is positioned as a premium asset. IBA’s market intelligence forecasts a robust market value opinion of $197 million to $198 million for a new A350F slated for delivery in 2027. Furthermore, monthly lease rates for the aircraft are expected to be situated comfortably between $1.53 million and $1.55 million. To provide a benchmark for this projected value and lease-rate profile, IBA values a new-delivery 2026 Boeing 777F at approximately $170 million, with corresponding monthly lease rates hovering around $1.35 million.

This story was originally published by STAT Times. Read the full story at STAT Times →