Abu Dhabi carrier Etihad Airways will introduce seven new generation A350F freighters, following its earlier commitment announced at the Singapore Airshow in February, this year.
The newly introduced freighters will upgrade the airline’s freight capacity by “deploying the most efficient cargo aircraft available in the market,” it said in a statement.
“This additional cargo capacity will support the unprecedented growth we are experiencing in the Etihad Cargo division. Airbus has developed a remarkable fuel-efficient aircraft that, in tandem with the A350-1000 in our passenger fleet, supports our commitment to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” explained Etihad’s group chief executive officer, Tony Douglas.
Etihad has also signed long term agreements for Airbus’ Flight Hour Services (FHS), to support its A350 fleet entirely, and “to maintain aircraft performance and optimise reliability.”
This will be the first agreement in the Middle East for an Airbus FHS contract for an A350 fleet.
Chief commercial officer and head of airbus international, Christian Scherer, also added this new generation freighter brings benefits in terms of range, fuel efficiency and carbon dioxide savings.
This will not only support customers through enhanced operational efficiencies, but will also reduce environmental impact.
What is the A350F?
The A350F has a 109-tonne payload capability, which can serve cargo markets globally.
Over 70 percent of the A350F’s airframe is made of advanced materials, resulting a lighter take-off weight by 30-tonnes and generating at least 20 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions.
The freighter meets the carbon dioxide emission standards set by Canada-based international civil aviation organisation (ICAO) of 2027.
The A350F is powered by fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines.
The airline also recorded $296 million in profits during the first half of the year, due to a significant increase in cargo revenue, strong rebound for travel demands and relaxed pandemic restrictions.
Air cargo saw a revenue rise of 6 percent year-on-year by $802 million, despite a 19 percent drop in freight volumes by 295,020 tonnes.
The airline flew over 4.02 million passengers over the first six months, accelerating its profits in numbers.
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