Boosting Cargo Profile on the Silk Road
Wolfgang Meier, President of Silk Way West Airlines, announced the new acquisition. “Deepening our collaboration with Airbus on the A350F is a source of great pride. Confirming four aircraft represents a pivotal step in our growth trajectory and underscores our belief in the long-term viability of sustainable air cargo operations.”
“These state-of-the-art freighters will reinforce our competitive edge worldwide while helping us significantly lower our environmental impact.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, was equally enthusiastic. “This repeat commitment from the Caspian region’s largest cargo operator arrives at an exciting moment, as the first A350F takes shape on our final assembly line in Toulouse.”
“The aircraft will enable Silk Way West to retain its forefront position in international freight and further elevate Azerbaijan’s strategic role as a vital logistics hub along the modern Silk Road.”
The A350F Advantage
Designed from the outset as a dedicated new-generation freighter, the A350F features the widest main-deck cargo door in its class and a fuselage precisely tailored to standard pallets and containers.
More than 70% of the airframe uses advanced composite materials, delivering a take-off weight up to 46 tonnes lighter than competing derivatives.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft burns up to 40% less fuel and emits correspondingly lower CO₂ than older freighters with comparable payload-range performance.
With a maximum payload of 111 tonnes and a range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the A350F is the only freighter already compliant with the stringent ICAO CO₂ standards due in 2027.
It will enter service capable of operating on up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with full 100% SAF certification targeted for 2030.
