Airbus’ new A350F freighter has taken off from Toulouse, France, for its first-ever flight, officially beginning the aircraft’s flight-test campaign. The aircraft, known as MSN700, is the first A350F test aircraft and will play a key role in the certification programme.
The freighter has attracted attention with its unique giant parcel-inspired livery, featuring shipping-label graphics and the message “OPEN HERE FOR BUSINESS” beside its large main-deck cargo door. The design was selected through a public competition held for the first A350F.
Although based on the A350 family, the A350F has a dedicated fuselage configuration and different aerodynamic characteristics. Airbus plans around 400 hours of flight testing using two aircraft. MSN700 will focus mainly on aerodynamics, handling and autopilot testing, while MSN701 will conduct extensive systems testing, including cargo-deck fire and smoke trials.
