The deal was signed in Baku, Azerbaijan today (Tuesday 28 June) in a ceremony attended by Wolfgang Meier, President of Silk Way West Airlines, and Wouter Van Wersch, Executive Vice President Region and Sales Europe of Airbus.
It is the first time that the 2 companies have worked together, and Silk Way has the option for 2 more A350Fs.
Meier says, “Today, our guests witnessed a defining moment in Silk Way West Airlines’ history. I am confident of the success that the acquisition of these new aircraft will bring us, and the signing of this agreement marks a new milestone in the growth of our company. There is no doubt that this partnership will strengthen the company's leading position in the global air freight market over the next 15-20 years.”
The A350F will feature a large main deck cargo door and a fuselage optimised for cargo operations.
Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials, reducing take-off weight by 30 tonnes, which, combined with an optimised cargo loading system and a 109-tonne payload capability, can serve all types of freight.