Cathay Cargo Increases Airbus A350F Freighter Orders to Eight

Last updated: 28 May 2026 11:12

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It is hoped the Cathay Cargo A350F will expand the airline's long-haul network from the Hong Kong hub to the Americas and Europe © Airbus

Cathay Cargo, the airfreight division of Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific, announced on Wednesday, May 27, that it has expanded its order of A350F aircraft from six to eight. The new A350Fs will join Cathay Cargo’s existing fleet of 14 B747-8Fs and six B747-400ERFs.

Cathay Cargo Boeing 747 on the runway with a building in the background and grass in the foreground — Cathay Cargo Boeing 747 on the runway. The airline has 14 Boeing 747-8Fs and 6 747-400ERFs in its fleet © Md Shaifuzzaman Ayon

Greater Connectivity

The Cathay Group is one of the top five largest cargo airlines worldwide when measured by available freight tonne-kilometres. Since 2010, Cathay Cargo’s main hub – Hong Kong International Airport – has been named the world’s busiest cargo airport 15 times.

Speaking about the order, CEO of Cathay Group Ronald Lam commented:

“We are pleased to further strengthen our fleet with these additional A350F freighters that will provide greater connectivity at our home hub and more choices for our customers. This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier.

“As we continue to grow alongside our home hub, the Cathay Group has already committed well over HK$100 billion in investments into our fleet, cabin and lounge products and digital innovation. Together, these investments will elevate the customer experience and strengthen the Hong Kong international aviation hub propelled by the Three-Runway System.”

Cathay Pacific Cargo Boeing 747F in front of a maintenance hangar — Cathay Pacific Cargo Boeing 747F . The Airbus A350F emits dramatically lower emissions when compared to the Boeing 747 © Md Shaifuzzaman Ayon

A350F freighters

The airline had previously confirmed it was ordering six A350F aircraft in 2023, with the latest announcement bringing the total on order to eight.

The aircraft has a payload capacity of up to 111 tonnes and a range of 4,700 nautical miles. It also burns up to 20% less fuel and emits 20% less CO₂ than the Boeing 777F.

How else can Cathay Cargo expand its freight division? Share your answers in the comment section below.

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ByLorna Rudge

Aviation Reporter - An English graduate and an avid writer. Whilst studying for her degree Lorna undertook a work placement at the BBC which cultivated an interest in journalism. After graduating she embarked on a career in the civil service but now wants to pursue a passion for writing and news. Lorna is a keen traveller. Her favourite destination is Egypt which she has visited 12 times!