Aircraft lessor, AviLease, has placed a significant order with Airbus for 40 aircraft, comprising 10 A350F freighters and 30 A320neo family jets.

The company also indicated plans to expand the deal in the future to include up to 22 A350Fs and 55 A320neo aircraft.

The A350F is designed with efficiency and sustainability in mind. It features the industry’s largest main deck cargo door and a fuselage optimised for standard pallets and containers.

Over 70% of the airframe is made from advanced materials, contributing to a 46-tonne lower take-off weight compared to rival aircraft.

The A350F is also set to become the only freighter fully compliant with ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards, which take effect in 2027.

The deal was announced at the Paris Air Show 2025.

Edward O’Byrne, chief executive of AviLease, said: “We are proud to establish an Airbus order book, strengthening our position as a full-service, investment grade global lessor.

“The addition of these latest generation aircraft enhances our ability to offer modern, fuel-efficient fleet solutions to our airline partners in Saudi Arabia and around the world.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus executive vice president of sales of the commercial aircraft business, said: “The A350F will set the benchmark in air cargo, offering at least 20% reduced fuel burn, better loading capacity and increased range, while the A320neo family continues to be the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft.

“This dual order reinforces AviLease’s credentials as a leading lessor, and it demonstrates the broad appeal of our products among lessors and their airline customers.”

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