HONG KONG- Cathay Cargo, the cargo division of Cathay Pacific (CX), has expanded its Airbus A350F freighter order from six to eight aircraft. The carrier exercised purchase rights for two additional units, building on the original order placed in 2023.
The new freighters will operate from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), reinforcing the airport’s position as a global air cargo hub. The investment supports Cathay Group’s wider fleet renewal program and its long-term growth strategy across Asia and beyond.
Cathay Cargo Orders Two Airbus A350F
Cathay Cargo announced the expanded order on May 27, 2026, marking another step in the Cathay Group’s fleet modernisation. The additional two Airbus A350F freighters bring the total commitment to eight aircraft of this type.
The order reflects the airline’s confidence in long-term air cargo demand and its strategy to grow alongside Hong Kong International Airport.
The Cathay Group ranks among the top five largest cargo airline groups in the world, measured by cross-boundary available freight tonne kilometres, according to Accenture Cargo data. This scale has helped Hong Kong International Airport secure the title of world’s busiest cargo airport 15 times since 2010, based on Airports Council International rankings.
The new A350F freighters will improve cargo connectivity between Hong Kong, Mainland China, and global markets served by the Cathay Group. They will also support the airline’s sustainability targets through more fuel-efficient operations.
Executive Remarks
Cathay Group Chief Executive Officer Ronald Lam said the additional A350Fs strengthen the airline’s home hub and offer more options for customers.
He described the order as a strategic, future-ready investment that reflects confidence in long-term growth.
Lam added that the Cathay Group has committed well over HK$100 billion to investments covering fleet, cabin products, lounges, and digital innovation.
He noted that these investments aim to elevate the customer experience while supporting the Hong Kong international aviation hub, which now operates under the Three-Runway System.
Current Cathay Cargo Fleet Composition
The eight new A350F freighters will join an existing fleet of 20 Boeing 747 freighters. This current freighter fleet includes 14 Boeing 747-8F aircraft and six Boeing 747-400ERF aircraft.
The A350F will become the next-generation backbone of the carrier’s long-haul freight operations.
Beyond dedicated freighters, Cathay Cargo also carries goods using belly capacity on passenger flights operated across the Cathay Group’s network. This network reaches more than 100 destinations worldwide, providing flexible cargo options for shippers.
Wider Fleet Renewal and Expansion Plan
The A350F order forms part of a much larger fleet program. The Cathay Group currently has orders for more than 100 aircraft across multiple categories. These include narrowbody jets, regional widebodies, long-haul widebodies, and large freighters.
This all-encompassing renewal plan aims to replace older aircraft with more efficient models. The strategy supports both growth ambitions and environmental commitments, positioning Cathay Cargo to compete as the carrier works toward its stated goal of becoming the world’s best air cargo operator.
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