Airbus has completed assembly of its first A350 freighter prototype and is preparing for nine months of flight testing beginning next October, with entry into service targeted for late 2027, reported American Shipper.

The programme, delayed a year by supply chain issues, involves two test aircraft. The first will log about 300 hours focusing on cruise and autopilot performance, while the second will test air conditioning, smoke systems and low-visibility take offs. Certification will be sought concurrently from European and US regulators.

Airbus has secured 82 firm orders from 13 airlines and leasing companies. The A350F, derived from the A350-1000 passenger aircraft, can carry 111 tonnes over 4,700 nautical miles. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, it is expected to cut fuel use and emissions by 40 per cent compared with older freighters.

Features include a 175-inch cargo door, reinforced watertight flooring, independent pallet loading systems, and highly accurate temperature-controlled cargo areas. Crew upgrades include galley windows and segregated air recirculation between cockpit and cargo compartments.

Airbus forecasts global freighter demand to grow 3.3 per cent annually, expanding the fleet 45 per cent to 3,420 units over 20 years. Rival Boeing projects a 67 per cent increase, with 2,900 new freighters by 2044.

Industry analysts expect retirements of older large freighters in coming years, while e-commerce continues to drive demand. In 2025, air cargo volumes have grown four per cent year on year, down from 12 per cent in 2024 but still considered solid amid global trade tensions.