Cathay Cargo expands A350F fleet order to strengthen hub
The airline group currently has orders for more than 100 aircraft across narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody and freighter categories as it prepares for future passenger and cargo demand growth through Hong Kong.
Cathay Cargo has expanded its Airbus A350F order to eight aircraft after exercising purchase rights for two additional freighters, as the carrier moves to strengthen cargo connectivity through Hong Kong and support long-term fleet growth plans.
The latest order adds to the six A350F freighters announced by the airline group in 2023. The expansion comes as the Cathay Group continues to position itself among the world’s largest cargo airline groups by cross-boundary air cargo capacity measured in available freight tonne kilometres, according to Accenture Cargo data.
The airline said the new freighters would support Hong Kong International Airport’s role as a global cargo gateway. The airport has been ranked the world’s busiest cargo airport 15 times since 2010 by Airports Council International, supported by cargo throughput handled through the Cathay network and other operators based in the city.
Cathay said the A350F aircraft would strengthen cargo links between Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and international markets served through the group’s cargo operations. The freighters are also expected to support the airline’s sustainability targets through the introduction of new-generation aircraft into its fleet.
Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said: “We are pleased to further strengthen our fleet with these additional A350F freighters that will provide greater connectivity at our home hub and more choices for our customers. This strategic, future-ready investment reflects our resolute confidence in our long-term growth prospects and supports Cathay Cargo’s goal of being the world’s best air cargo carrier.”
He added: “As we continue to grow alongside our home hub, the Cathay Group has already committed well over HK$100 billion in investments into our fleet, cabin and lounge products and digital innovation. Together, these investments will elevate the customer experience and strengthen the Hong Kong international aviation hub propelled by the Three-Runway System.”
The new A350F aircraft will complement Cathay Cargo’s existing freighter fleet of 20 Boeing 747 aircraft, which includes 14 Boeing 747-8 freighters and six Boeing 747-400ERFs. Alongside dedicated freighter services, the carrier also utilises belly cargo capacity across the Cathay Group’s passenger network, which serves more than 100 destinations globally.
The freighter order forms part of the Cathay Group’s broader fleet renewal and expansion strategy. The airline group currently has orders for more than 100 aircraft across narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody and freighter categories as it prepares for future passenger and cargo demand growth through Hong Kong.
