The A350 freighter has completed its first test flight from Toulouse, marking the start of a nine-month flight-test campaign for the new widebody cargo aircraft.
The aircraft flew for four hours and 10 minutes on Tuesday, September 29, reaching 25,000 feet with a five-person crew that included three test engineers. Initial testing focused on basic airworthiness, flying qualities and the performance of essential systems.
The programme is expected to move towards European Union Aviation Safety Agency type certification after the flight-test phase, with the first commercial delivery anticipated in late 2027. A second prototype is also nearing completion and is due to enter the paint shop in the coming weeks.
For airlines, cargo operators and freight forwarders, the aircraft represents a new option in the large-freighter market as older aircraft are retired and available capacity remains under pressure. The manufacturer has recorded 103 orders from 14 customers.
Based on the A350-1000 passenger aircraft, the freighter has been designed around cargo loading and operational commonality. Its main-deck cargo door is positioned behind the wing, allowing loading from the main deck and lower holds at the same time. The aircraft also uses a reinforced metallic floor and a digitally controlled loading system for positioning pallets.
The freighter is designed to carry up to 111 tonnes and has a 175-inch-wide cargo door. Its shared platform with the passenger version could also help airlines simplify pilot training and fleet integration.
Extensive use of composite materials is intended to reduce weight. The manufacturer says the aircraft could cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 40% compared with some older freighters still in service.
The programme also comes as new international efficiency and emissions standards influence the future production of large cargo aircraft. Certification progress and the eventual delivery schedule will therefore be closely watched by European and global air-cargo operators.
