The SIA has signed a letter of intent to purchase seven A350F freighter aircraft with options to purchase another five aircraft. SIA will be the first airline to operate the new generation widebody freighter aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The SIA Group has two A350-900 passenger aircraft that are in the order book. SIA can manage its capital expenditure while continuing with the freighter renewal programme.
The A350F can carry the same amount of cargo as the Boeing 747-400F, which it will replace in the SIA fleet. It burns up to 40% less fuel on similar missions to provide better operating economics and it has a longer range that gives greater flexibility in aircraft deployment. The Trent XWB-97 engine is used in the A350F.
The air cargo segment is a core business for SIA and the renewal of the freighter fleet shows that. SIA has increased its cargo capabilities over the last few years, especially in key segments such as e-commerce, fresh produce, and pharmaceuticals. Adding the A350Fs will strengthen Singapore's position as a global air cargo hub. Annexe B contains more information on SIA's cargo business.
SIA would cut its carbon emissions by around 400,000 tonnes annually if it replaced the A350Fs with the 747-400Fs. The future fleet of the Group will be one of the youngest in the industry as the A350Fs and other new-generation aircraft enter into service.
SIA has a position as a leading global air cargo carrier, while furthering our sustainable goals. The A350Fs will replace our seven 747-400F freighters, with the option to adapt our requirements to future demand in the cargo market.
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The Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Airlines is Mr. Choon Phong.
The SIA Group needs to invest in the cargo business in order to bolster their revenue streams. Air cargo plays a vital role in keeping global supply chains open. SIA has worked closely with our partners in Singapore and around the world to deliver items such as vaccines, personal protection equipment, and food supplies, and we will continue to support such efforts.
A350 freighter.
The future of airfreight is in the hands of the Board of Directors, who approved a freighter derivative of the A350 designed to meet the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and the evolving environmental requirements.
The A350F is part of the world's most modern long-range family. The A350F will serve all cargo markets. The aircraft has a large main deck cargo door, which is larger than the industry's standard pallets and containers.
The airframe will be made of advanced materials, which will result in a 30 tonne lighter take-off weight and at least 20% lower fuel consumption and emissions over its current closest competitor. The A350F will meet the enhanced CO2 emissions standards in the year 2027.
Singapore Airlines is the largest operator of the A350, with 56 aircraft currently in service across its network. Over the past month, there have been three commitments for the new A350F.
The A350 Freighter was launched at the airshow.
