Silk Way West Airlines Expands A350F Order to Four Freighters
Silk Way West Airlines has expanded its Airbus A350F order to four freighter aircraft, signing a firm contract for two additional jets at the Dubai Airshow 2025. The Azerbaijan-based cargo carrier originally ordered two A350Fs in 2022 with options for two more, and the confirmation brings its total commitment to four aircraft slated for delivery between 2027 and 2028.
“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Airbus on the A350F program,” said Wolfgang Meier, president of Silk Way West Airlines. “This order marks a major milestone in our company’s growth and reflects our confidence in the future of sustainable air freight.”
Founded in 2012, Silk Way West Airlines currently operates 12 freighters, including Boeing 747-8Fs, 747-400FSCDs and 777-200Fs. The A350F will be the airline’s first Airbus aircraft, marking a significant step in fleet modernization and environmental performance.
Airbus EVP of commercial aircraft sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry called the repeat order “a strong vote of confidence” as the A350F progresses through assembly. He noted that the aircraft will support Silk Way West’s role in developing Azerbaijan as a major cargo hub along the modern Silk Road.
The A350F, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, is designed to carry up to 111 tons with a range of 4,700 nautical miles / 8,700 km. Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 40% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability. The A350F will be able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to-service, with the aim for 100% capability by 2030, as with all Airbus aircraft.
Airbus now expects entry into service in 2027, later than the initial 2025 target. As of October 2025, Airbus had logged 74 A350F orders from 12 customers, including Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Starlux and lessor AviLease.
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