Last Updated: 02:55 AM EST Sep 29 2026 by Tom Boon
Welcome to our live updates on the inaugural flight of the Airbus A350 Freighter. Tom Boon from Simple Flying is on-site in Toulouse, providing coverage of this significant event for Airbus. Stay with us on this page throughout the day for the most recent information regarding the flight’s status.
Expected Flight Schedule
Tuesday, September 29th, 02:55 PM EST
While the precise timing of the flight will depend on operational, safety, and weather factors, Airbus has offered some insight into when the flight is anticipated to take place. Based on the latest schedule released by the manufacturer, approximately four hours of flight time is projected:
- First Flight Take-off: 10:30 am-10:45 am (4:30 am-10:30 am Eastern)
- Flyover, Landing, & Taxiing: 2:30 pm-3:15 pm (8:30 am-9:15 am Eastern)
The Background
Unveiled in July 2021, the Airbus A350 Freighter is the latest addition to the European manufacturer’s lineup. With 115 confirmed orders, this aircraft is poised to rival Boeing’s 777-8F. However, Airbus has a unique advantage in designing this next-generation freighter, as it is based on an aircraft that has been in operation for over ten years.
The Airbus A350F stands out in its design as a “factory fresh” freighter. Unlike the majority of aircraft utilized for cargo transport worldwide, this model features a composite fuselage, a design element that has not been previously employed in freighter aircraft.
Source: Original article
