- Singapore Airlines signed on Feb 16 a deal for seven A350F freighters
- The A350Fs will replace SIA’s seven Boeing 747-400F freighters
- SIA will be the first carrier to operate the new generation widebody freighter aircraft when deliveries begin in the fourth quarter of 2025
- The A350F has the capability to ferry payloads of around 109 tonnes
- It burns up to 40% less fuel on similar missions to the 747-400F, reducing SIA’s carbon emissions by around 400,000 tonnes annually
Singapore Airlines (SIA) signed on February 16 an order for seven Airbus A350F freighters, with option for five more aircraft.
In a statement, the airline said it will be the first carrier to operate the new generation widebody freighter aircraft when deliveries begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The A350Fs, which will replace SIA’s seven Boeing 747-400F freighters, can carry a similar volume of cargo to the Boeing 747-400F, with capability to ferry payloads of around 109 tonnes.
The agreement was signed at the Singapore Airshow 2022 by Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines, and Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Airbus.
“This order underscores the importance of the cargo market to the SIA Group. The introduction of the A350F will enhance our capabilities in this key sector, ensuring that we are ready for the growth opportunities that will arise in the coming years. These new-generation aircraft will substantially increase our operating efficiencies and reduce our fuel burn, making an important contribution towards the success of our long-term decarbonization goals,” SIA’s Goh said.
The A350F burns up to 40% less fuel on similar missions to the 747-400F, reducing SIA’s carbon emissions by around 400,000 tonnes annually. This supports the SIA Group’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the airline said.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350F is capable of meeting the 2027 International Civil Aviation Organization emissions standard.
The range and payload of the A350F will provide SIA with greater flexibility in its freighter deployment, bolstering its cargo business and cementing its leading position in the sector, the airline said.
SIA has strengthened its cargo capabilities over the last few years in key segments including e-commerce, fresh produce, and pharmaceuticals. It has also rolled out several digital initiatives that provide greater value and options for customers.
The A350F deal with Airbus includes a swap with 15 A320neo and two A350-900 passenger aircraft in the SIA Group order book. This allows SIA to manage its capital expenditure while continuing with its essential freighter renewal program.
The newly launched A350F uses over 70% advanced materials such as composites, titanium, and modern aluminium alloys to create a lighter and more cost-efficient aircraft, while increasing resistance to corrosion and reducing maintenance requirements.
