Air France-KLM Group orders four A350 freighters
27 / 01 / 2023
Airbus A350F. Photo: AFKLMP
Air France-KLM Group has placed a firm order with Airbus for four new A350 freighter aircraft.
The production freighters will be operated by Martinair on behalf of KLM Cargo and will replace the airline’s current Boeing 747 freighters from the second half of 2026.
Marjan Rintel, chief executive, KLM, said: “Fleet renewal is an important part of KLM’s ambition to become more sustainable. In this, we take our responsibility.
“We want to emit less CO₂ because of the climate and reduce noise for local residents. The A350F reduces CO₂ by over 40% and noise by 50% compared to their predecessors.
“That is why we decided to place this order earlier than originally planned. Instead of in 2027, we will replace the freighters from autumn 2026. We are accelerating KLM’s sustainability efforts with this.”
The four A350Fs emit over 40% less CO₂ and make 50% less noise than their predecessors, said KLM.
The A350F is fitted with an extra-large cargo deck. Lighter materials have been used wherever possible to keep take-off weight to a minimum.
In combination with the efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, this reduces CO₂ emissions and noise pollution.
The maximum payload of the chosen configuration is 108 tonnes.
Adriaan den Heijer, executive vice president Air France-KLM Cargo and managing director Martinair, added: “In choosing the A350F, we are taking an important step to cut CO₂ emissions and noise pollution.
“I am very pleased with these new, technologically advanced aircraft joining the fleet, which fit well in the Air France KLM Martinair Cargo operation.
“For our customers, the versatility of the A350F is good news for the future. The new aircraft are an important addition, supplementing the belly capacity of our extensive intercontinental passenger fleet.”
Air France-KLM finalised its order with Airbus for four A350F freighters in April 2022, with purchase rights for an additional four aircraft, after signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) in December 2021.
In May last year, CMA CGM announced it was planning to purchase a 9% stake in Air France-KLM Group as part of a new partnership that also includes combining their freighter operations.
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo is the Air France-KLM Group’s dedicated air cargo business.
