Airbus Adds 8 Orders For The A350F

Airbus has added eight orders for the upcoming A350F from an undisclosed customer, boosting the firm’s backlog.

With the programme approaching its first flight as it gears up for a certification campaign leading to a hopeful late-2027 entry into service, the firm’s backlog now sits at 115 aircraft.

In the planemaker’s latest monthly orders and delivery recap, the deal finalised on 31 August 2026 appeared in the report, but from an unidentified customer.

Airbus A350F Backlog Now Hits 115 Aircraft

The latest order for eight units increases the A350F backlog and comes amid a flurry of activity for the type; the programme is set to enter service in late-2027 under current forecasts and has seen 34 orders added this year alone, an uptick of more than 40%.

Eight aircraft for the A350F were part of a broader 67 commercial gross orders that were recorded in August. The A320neo family dominated the month, with Shenzhen Airlines purchasing 40 higher-capacity A321neo aircraft.

Demand for widebody aircraft in China also came to fruition in August, with Air China committing to 15 A350-900s, meaning the broader A350 family secured 23 new firm orders during the 31-day period.

The A350F Customer List Grows

The customer list for the Airbus A350F has grown dramatically in the last couple of years to include several of the world’s largest freight operators.

Atlas Air’s purchase is the largest disclosed for 20 firm aircraft, with Air China Cargo and Cathay Cargo both increasing their commitments this year, which stretches to then.

Cathay Cargo has exactly eight on order, and the firm deal committed to on 31 August 2026 is also for eight, despite Airbus listing the transaction as from an undisclosed customer.

For now, customers remain patient as tests continue on the ground for the A350F to obtain the necessary clearance to operate its first flight and begin its lengthy campaign to secure certification, permit first delivery, and enter service.

While some customers, such as Air France-KLM, have expressed frustration over communication and delays, others remain optimistic about the debut window. Airbus will try to avoid further delays in its response to Boeing’s long-running dominance in the sector.