Airbus has finished the first ever set of wings for the new A350 Freighter aircraft at its Broughton UK site.
The wings for the A350 freighter aircraft (A350F) have been designed similarly to the A350 so they can be built in the same line, allowing for operational and industrial benefits and improvements.
The A350F has been designed to meet the evolving needs of the global air cargo market. Similar to the A350 widebody passenger aircraft, the wings incorporate the latest composite material technology, reducing weight and increasing aerodynamic efficiency.
Airbus is building two A350F test aircraft which will undergo flight tests throughout 2026 and 2027. The wings will soon be transported via Airbus’ iconic freighter, the BelugaXL, from Broughton to Bremen for final equipping before being sent to Toulouse to be joined to the fuselage of the first test aircraft.
Paul Kilmister, head of widebody wings at Airbus Broughton said, “This is a proud moment for everyone at Broughton, completing the first ever A350F wingset. With almost 1,400 orders for the A350, including 63 A350F, Broughton will continue to play a critical role in the future of the programme, supporting Airbus’ growth in passenger and freight markets.
“The A350F is poised to shape the future of air freight, offering operators a more efficient, and versatile solution for decades to come.”
The new A350F offers at least 20% lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared to current in-service freighters; a cargo door with a 4.3m-wide opening; a range of up to 8,700km with up to 111-ton payload.
