Many controversies occupied news columns about the paint quality of A350 last week , furthermore, Airbus even took a tough stance to defend it self by resorting to an independent legal assessment against the "mischaracterisation of the non-structural surface degradation on its fleet of A350 aircraft" by one of its customers.
But, things are changing fast ! Now, Largest A350 operator - Singapore Airlines (SIA) has backed the aircraft by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Airbus for seven A350F freighter aircraft. The agreement will see the A350F begin replacing the airline's existing B747-400F fleet in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Airbus took it to the twitter and said,
Thrilled to welcome @SingaporeAir as the latest #A350F customer with an order for seven aircraft aimed at replacing its existing B747 Freighter fleet while bringing lower fuel consumption and CO₂ savings.
Guillaume Faury, Airbus Chief Executive Officer said,
What an honour to see @SingaporeAir select the #A350F and become the first operator of our brand new freighter aircraft from 2025 onwards. On behalf of #TeamAirbus, we thank you for your trust and look forward to taking our partnership to new heights.
“We are honoured by Singapore Airlines’ vote of confidence in the A350F as it renews its freighter fleet. The A350F is the world’s all-new large freighter and will be unmatched in its market segment in terms of operational efficiency, lower fuel consumption and CO₂ savings,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.
“It is gratifying that Singapore Airlines recognises the value of the A350F as we build on the strong partnership we already enjoy.”
Earlier this year Airbus received Board of Directors approval for a freighter derivative of the A350 designed to meet the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and the evolving environmental requirements, shaping the future of airfreight. The A350F will be powered by latest technology, fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent-XWB97 engines.
As part of the world’s most modern long-range family, the A350F will have a high level of commonality with the A350 passenger versions. With a 109 tonne payload capability, the A350F will serve all cargo markets. The aircraft features a large main deck cargo door, with its fuselage length and capacity optimised around the industry’s standard pallets and containers.
Over 70% of the airframe will be made of advanced materials, resulting in a 30 tonne lighter take-off weight and generating at least 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions over its current closest competitor. The A350F will fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards coming into effect in 2027.
Singapore Airlines is the world’s largest operator of the A350, with 56 aircraft currently in service across its network. The agreement with Singapore Airlines is the third commitment received for the new A350F over the past month.
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