MNG Airlines to Order Two Airbus A350 Freighters

MNG Airlines to Acquire Two Airbus A350 Freighters

Paris, France, 18 June 2025 – MNG Airlines (MNGA), a Türkiye-based global logistics provider and e-commerce enabler, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to purchase two Airbus A350 Freighters. This agreement underscores MNG’s commitment to integrating next-generation cargo aircraft into its fleet, aiming to enhance operational flexibility and capacity across critical trade corridors spanning Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.

Strategic Partnership and Fleet Modernization

Murathan Doruk Günal, CEO of Mapa Group and Chairman of MNG Airlines, emphasized that the acquisition deepens the airline’s partnership with Airbus across its freighter portfolio. He noted that the A350F will bolster MNG’s presence on major trade lanes and support both scheduled and charter operations. This flexibility is intended to address evolving cargo demands, including e-commerce shipments, high-value freight, and express logistics services.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President for Commercial Aircraft Sales, welcomed MNG Airlines as the newest customer for the A350F. He highlighted the aircraft’s advanced efficiency, performance, and loading versatility, expressing confidence in a smooth integration into MNG’s operational framework.

The Airbus A350F: A New Benchmark in Freighter Technology

Currently under development, the Airbus A350F is designed to be the world’s most advanced freighter. It will offer a maximum payload capacity of 111 tonnes and a range of 8,700 kilometers, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines. The aircraft is engineered to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared to previous-generation freighters. Constructed with over 70% advanced materials, the A350F is 46 tonnes lighter than its competitors and features the industry’s largest main deck cargo door.

Notably, the A350F is the only freighter fully compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) 2027 CO₂ emissions standards. It is expected to be capable of operating with 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at entry into service, with a target of 100% SAF compatibility by 2030.

Market Context and Competitive Landscape

MNG Airlines’ decision to acquire two A350Fs comes amid a dynamic and competitive air cargo market. The investment represents a significant capital commitment, accompanied by substantial costs related to crew training and infrastructure upgrades necessary to support the new aircraft. Market analysts remain divided; some view the order as a strategic step toward expanding cargo capacity and modernizing the fleet, while others caution about potential financial pressures amid volatile fuel prices and ongoing economic uncertainties.

Competition within the sector is intensifying. Embraer recently announced Bridges Air Cargo as the launch operator for its E-Freighter, potentially prompting MNG Airlines to assess alternative offerings and pricing from other manufacturers. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines’ order for two more A350-900s and Riyadh Air’s commitment to acquire up to 50 A350-1000s reflect a broader industry trend favoring large, fuel-efficient wide-body freighters. This momentum may influence MNG Airlines’ strategic positioning as it seeks to reinforce its role in the global cargo market.