A350F to replace 747 freighters

Martinair, part of the KLM Group, has placed a firm order with Airbus for four new A350F freighter aircraft. Martinair is the operating carrier for KLM Cargo. The four A350Fs emit over 40% less CO₂ and make 50% less noise than their predecessors. The new aircraft will replace the current Boeing 747 freighters from the second half of 2026.

The A350F is the freighter version of the A350. It is fitted with an extra-large cargo deck. Lighter materials have been used wherever possible to keep take-off weight to a minimum. In combination with the efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, this considerably improves performance in terms of CO₂ emissions and noise pollution. This aircraft is suitable for carrying a range of cargos, including fresh produce, express shipments, pharmaceuticals, horses and oversized cargo. The maximum payload of the chosen configuration is 108 tonnes.