Airbus A350F freighter completes maiden flight

Airbus flew the A350F freighter prototype (MSN 700) on a 4‑hour‑10‑minute maiden flight, reaching 25,000 ft. The aircraft offers a payload of up to 111 tonnes and a range of about 8,700 km.

The A350F freighter (MSN 700) completed its first flight. The flight lasted 4 hours and 10 minutes and reached an altitude of 25,000 feet. The aircraft is powered by Rolls‑Royce Trent XWB‑97 engines. The A350F can carry up to 111 tonnes of payload. It has a range capability of up to 8,700 kilometres. The second A350F prototype (MSN 701) is in final assembly. The high payload and long range expand cargo capacity for airlines, potentially boosting freight revenue and influencing aircraft selection for long‑haul cargo routes. Airports may need to accommodate larger freighter dimensions and higher payload handling requirements.