Airbus, the renowned European aircraft manufacturer, announced at the Paris Air Show the selection of the launch livery for the new A350F freighter. The design, inspired by a package of goods ready to be dispatched, was selected among more than 4,000 illustrations sent to the competition promoted by the manufacturer.
The winning designs, one by Irish designer John Feehan and the other by Canadian brothers Quinnten and Ellisten Iversen, have been merged into a unique and eye-catching livery that will adorn the inaugural Airbus A350F set to be delivered in 2026.
“Congratulations to John Feehan and brothers Quinnten and Ellisten Iversen on winning the competition. We cannot wait to see your design come to life as the A350F embarks on its first flight in 2025,” Airbus said.
The resulting livery for the Airbus A350F freighter exudes a distinctive package look, evoking the essence of goods ready for dispatch. The prototype aircraft, scheduled for its maiden flight in 2025, will be adorned with this captivating paint finish. Airbus plans to apply the winning design to the prototype by the end of 2024, as it looks forward to the anticipated entry into service in 2026.
A350F: An Enhanced Freight Solution
📦 It's a wrap!
✈️ Here is the #A350F's final livery design – what do you think?For more details and to find out who the winners are check out our dedicated page: https://t.co/YOHLpq9PKj #ParisAirShow pic.twitter.com/01TFHdZT5M
— Airbus (@Airbus) June 21, 2023
Based on the successful A350-1000 platform, the Airbus A350F offers exceptional capabilities for the freight industry. While sharing similarities with the A350-1000, the A350F boasts a slightly shorter fuselage in front of the wings, resulting in an improved center of gravity for efficient freight operations, according to the manufacturer. With a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 319 tons, the A350F stands as a formidable contender in the freighter market.
The Airbus A350F’s impressive dimensions make it a game-changer in terms of cargo capacity. With a length of 6.9 meters longer than its competitor, the Boeing 777F, and only 0.1 shorter than the new 777-8F, and a cargo volume of 695 cubic meters, the A350F offers ample space to meet the demands of the cargo industry.
Notably, the A350F boasts the largest cargo door among all freighters, measuring 3.8 meters in width and 3.7 meters in height, ensuring seamless loading and unloading of oversized cargo, providing unprecedented convenience to freight operators.
Airbus has already received 39 orders for the A350F, demonstrating the industry’s confidence in this innovative freighter. Among the notable customers are CMA-CGM, Air Lease Corporation, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Silk Way West Airlines, Etihad, Martinair, and an undisclosed customer.
