CMA CGM has become the launch operator for Airbus’s new A350 freighter, stepping into the role after US lessor Air Lease cancelled its order for seven of the aircraft.
The French shipping and logistics group confirmed in a LinkedIn post that its cargo airline subsidiary, CMA CGM Air Cargo, will operate the first of the new-generation freighters.
The company has eight A350Fs on order, the largest commitment to date for the model.
CMA CGM first agreed to purchase four A350Fs in November 2021, firming the order a month later. The deal was later expanded to eight aircraft in April 2023, following the end of its partnership with Air France-KLM.
Air Lease had been the original launch customer, placing its order at the 2021 Dubai Airshow. However, the company removed all seven from Airbus’s backlog last month, citing production delays and uncertainty in cargo markets.
Air France-KLM has also cut back its A350F commitments, reducing its total from eight to six aircraft, with subsidiary Martinair trimming its order from four to three.
The decision followed an internal fleet review and Airbus’s announcement in February that the freighter’s entry into service would slip from 2026 to the second half of 2027.
The A350F is being marketed as a more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly alternative to older widebody freighters and is expected to compete directly with Boeing’s 777-8F.