FLEET - Air France-KLM scales down A350F order

Air France-KLM has adjusted its order for new A350F freighters and will take six instead of the previously planned eight units.

The holding's spokesperson confirmed to ch-aviation that the group will be taking three aircraft for Air France and three for Martinair (Netherlands), the cargo subsidiary of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Each carrier was previously supposed to add four aircraft.

"This does not mean any change in strategy. We will continue to operate our hybrid model of freighter aircraft combined with belly cargo on Air France-KLM Group’s passenger aircraft," the spokesperson said.

The news came only a few days after Air France-KLM published its 2024 financial report. It saw cargo volumes increasing 4.1% year-on-year, but the freight business recorded a 3.9% decline in revenue compared to 2023.

According to the ch-aviation fleets module, Air France is currently operating two B777-200Fs, while Martinair operates two B747-400ERFs and one B747-400(BCF). The group ordered the A350s in two batches, first four for Air France in 2022, followed by four for Martinair in early 2023. The deliveries were scheduled to start in 2026 but will be delayed to 2027.