It was the highlight of the aviation world in 2026. Watched by thousands of employees, guests and millions of LinkedIn-viewers around the globe, the first A350F took off from Toulouse Blagnac Airport on 29SEP26 for its maiden flight. The mission lasted 4 hours and 10 minutes during which the flight characteristics were thoroughly tested by the crew and technical experts. During the flight, the aircraft reached an altitude of 25,000 feet. Right after landing, a stiff certification campaign began, lasting approximately 10 months and comprising 400 flight hours. The aircraft, MSN700, is the first of two test-aircraft that will be used to validate the new widebody freighter before EASA type certification and the first customer delivery.
Airbus originally planned to put the A350F into service as early as 2025. However, due to supply chain issues and the challenging fitting of the extra-large side cargo door, the program’s timeline was pushed back by about two years.
MSN700 will primarily be used to assess handling qualities, autopilot systems and overall aircraft performance. A specialized tail skid and bumper have been installed to protect the aircraft during take-off performance testing. The second test aircraft, MSN701, will focus on system-related tests, including air conditioning, water and waste systems and smoke detection. It will also participate in hot- and cold weather testing and customer visits. MSN701 has completed final assembly and is currently undergoing ground tests ahead of entering the paint shop.
The A350F is designed for long-haul cargo operations, with a maximum payload of up to 111 tons and a range of up to 8,700 kilometers. Airbus says the aircraft incorporates more than 70% advanced materials and will be powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. Compared with previous-generation freighters, the manufacturer expects the A350F to deliver up to 40% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, although these performance figures remain subject to the ongoing flight-test program.
The first flight also represents a key step towards bringing the new freighter into commercial service. According to Airbus, the A350F had accumulated 115 firm orders from 14 customers by the end of August 2026. The manufacturer expects the aircraft to address demand for more fuel-efficient widebody freighters as operators renew ageing fleets and seek to reduce operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
