CMA CGM and Airbus have signed a binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the purchase of four A350F freighter aircraft which will be operated by CMA CGM AIR CARGO, the recently launched air cargo of the CMA CGM Group.

In a statement, Airbus said the order, which is subject to finalisation in the coming weeks, will lift CMA CGM’s total Airbus fleet to nine aircraft, including five A330-200F.

“We are proud to welcome CMA CGM AIR CARGO in the group of operators for the A350F and we are equally pleased to support the company’s future strategic development,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus chief commercial officer and head of Airbus International.

“The A350F will fit seamlessly into the carrier’s existing fleet of Airbus freighters. Thanks to its composite airframe and latest technology engines, it will bring unbeatable efficiency in terms of fuel burn, economics and CO₂  emissions, empowering the long-term sustainable growth of the Group.”

The A350F is based on the world's most modern long range leader, the A350.

Airbus said the aircraft features a large main deck cargo door and a fuselage length optimised for cargo operations.

Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials resulting in a 30t lighter take-off weight, generating an at least 20% lower fuel burn over its current closest competitor.

With a 109t payload capability (+3t payload/ 11% more volume than its competition), the A350F will also serve all cargo markets (Express, general cargo, special cargo…) and is in the large freighter category the only new generation freighter aircraft ready for the enhanced 2027 ICAO CO ₂ emissions standards.

Separately, CMA CGM said the A350F will be, upon delivery, the cargo aircraft with the “best environmental performance” in the sector, particularly in terms of CO2 emissions. 

“With a carrying capacity of more than 100 metric tons and a range of nearly 9,000 kilometers, the A350F will enable us to strengthen our long-haul offer,” CMA CGM said.

Launched in February 2021, its air cargo division, CMA CGM AIR CARGO, has a fleet of 4 Airbus A330-200F which will be completed by two Boeing 777 freighter aircraft, starting in spring 2022.