Singapore airlines has branched out into the world of freighters with a deal to acquire seven of the world’s newest freighter, the Airbus A350F. This is a significant breakthrough into a niche market dominated by rival planemaker Boeing. The fourth quarter of 2025 will be the date for commencement of deliveries, though it should be noted that this order has been made on the basis that Singapore airlines can swap the A350Fs for the 15 A320 neos and two A350-900s that are currently on order.
Ordinarily Airbus would look to delay delivery of previously ordered aircraft but see the swap as being more beneficial as this is a ‘big name’ endorsement of the A350F. Additionally, while Airbus is unlikely to have any difficulty in finding a buyer for the 15 A320 neos, the sale of seven A350 variants will be a fillip to the struggling wide-body production.
It is looking very likely that Qatar Airways, which had shown strong interest in the A350 freighter variant, will now be placing an order for between 34 and 35 Boeing 777X freighters after problems of erosion to the surface of existing Airbus jets remain unresolved and the dispute has now been put in the hands of lawyers.
Singapore Airlines said its seven new A350 freighters, along with options for another five, would replace its own fleet of seven ageing Boeing 747 freighters and reduce carbon emissions. Singapore Airlines is the A350F freighter’s third customer with lessor Air Lease Corp and French cargo company CMA CGM placing orders.