Cathay Pacific has indicated that deliveries of its Airbus A350 freighter aircraft could be delayed by approximately six months, as Airbus navigates the early phases of its next-generation cargo aircraft programme.
Speaking during the airline’s half-year results briefing, Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan said the anticipated delays are expected to impact the initial aircraft in the order. However, he expressed confidence that Airbus will recover lost time as production ramps up.
“We believe this is related to the first few aircraft,” McGowan noted, adding that Airbus is expected to “catch up as the order book progresses.”
Cathay Pacific currently has eight Airbus A350 freighters on order. The airline first committed to six aircraft in December 2023 and expanded the order with two additional units in early 2026.
At the time of the original agreement, deliveries were scheduled between 2027 and 2029. Cathay has not yet confirmed an updated delivery timeline following the expected delay.
Airbus advances A350F programme
The Airbus A350F represents the manufacturer’s latest-generation freighter, developed to address growing demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally sustainable cargo aircraft.
During Airbus’ second-quarter results briefing, CEO Guillaume Faury confirmed that the programme is progressing, with flight testing expected to commence before the end of 2026. Entry into service and initial customer deliveries remain targeted for 2027.
Based on the A350 passenger platform, the A350F is designed to deliver enhanced fuel efficiency, greater payload capacity, and reduced emissions compared to older widebody freighters.
Cathay Pacific is among several global carriers preparing to introduce the A350F, as the air cargo industry continues its transition towards more modern, efficient fleets.