Airbus A350F Freighter Completes Maiden Flight, Launching Over 9 Months of Testing

en.Wedoany.com Reported - On September 29, the first A350F test aircraft, MSN 700, completed its maiden flight in Toulouse, France. The flight lasted 4 hours and 10 minutes, reached a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet, and was operated by Airbus's dedicated flight test team. This maiden flight launches the subsequent flight testing and certification work for the A350F, with the entire test program set to last more than 9 months.

During the maiden flight, the test team focused on verifying the aircraft's basic airworthiness performance, flying qualities, and whether the main systems met design expectations. Airbus further disclosed that MSN 700 will primarily be responsible for handling qualities, autopilot system, and performance testing. The aircraft is equipped with a dedicated tail skid and protective devices for subsequent takeoff performance testing. During the maiden flight, the aircraft also tested handling characteristics under direct control laws, engine operating conditions, and core mechanical systems, reaching a maximum indicated airspeed of 340 knots.

The second A350F test aircraft, MSN 701, has completed final assembly and is currently undergoing ground testing. It will enter the paint shop in the coming weeks. According to Airbus's test division of labor, MSN 701 will primarily be responsible for testing systems such as air conditioning, water and waste systems, and smoke detection, and will participate in hot and cold environment testing as well as customer visit testing. Together, the two test aircraft will complete the planned certification testing of approximately 10 months and about 400 flight hours, with the ultimate goal of obtaining European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification.

The A350F has a maximum range of approximately 8,700 kilometers and a maximum payload of 111 tonnes, and uses more than 70% advanced materials. Compared with the competing aircraft of the same class selected by Airbus, its maximum takeoff weight is 46 tonnes lower. The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. Airbus's performance target is to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 40% under similar payload and range conditions. The A350F is also designed in accordance with the latest International Civil Aviation Organization carbon dioxide emissions standards.

As of the end of August 2026, the A350F had received a total of 115 orders from 14 disclosed customers. Airbus plans to proceed with deliveries to the first customers after completing flight testing and type certification, with entry into service currently planned for the second half of 2027.