THELASTMILE Logistics Outside the Box
IT’S A BOX, IT’S A PLANE, IT’S… A cargo aircraft painted like a cardboard box! Standing out in a market dominated by converted passenger jets, the purpose-built freighter from Airbus completed its first test flight.
AIRWORTHINESS CONFIRMED The cardboard box-themed A350F freighter (MSN 700), the first of two test aircraft, completed its first flight in September 2026. Taking off from Toulouse, France, the aircraft flew for 4 hours and 10 minutes, reaching an altitude of 25,000 feet. DESIGNED FOR THE LONG HAUL With a range capability of up to 5,405 miles and a payload of up to 122 tons, operators can deploy the aircraft on international long-haul routes.
FUEL CONSUMPTION REDUCTION
That’s a Wrap! When the A350F rolled out of the paintshop in August, sporting shiny new livery that has the look and feel of a special package, it marked the culmination of a four-year design project. Beginning in October 2022, more than 4,000 people submitted design proposals to Airbus for the aircraft’s livery. Winners were announced at the 2023 Paris Air Show. Two cardboard box-themed designs inspired by the freighter’s cargo were selected as the winners. The Airbus corporate design department combined the two winning proposals, placing graphics from both designs, such as adhesive tape, stickers, and stamps, and adding extra details to the cargo doors to make them stand out.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft is designed to bring a reduction in fuel consumption and cut carbon emissions by up to 40% compared to competitor aircraft with a similar payload-range capability.
EXTRA-LARGE OPENING FOR CARGO The A350F offers the largest main deck cargo door of the industry, with a cut-out width of 175 inches and a clear opening of 169.5 inches for quick loading of diverse goods.
WHAT’S NEXT The second A350F prototype (MSN 701) is now at an advanced stage of final assembly and is expected to enter the paint shop by November 2026. IN DEMAND At the end of August 2026, the A350F had recorded 115 orders from 14 customers, capturing up to 59% market share in the large freighter category. Airbus is targeting its first deliveries in the second half of 2027.
48 Inbound Logistics • October 2026
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