Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
MNG Airlines Orders Airbus A350F Freighters for Sustainable Cargo Growth
MNG Airlines expands its fleet with two Airbus A350F freighters, enhancing cargo capacity and sustainability in line with global environmental goals.
MNG Airlines Orders Two Airbus A350F Freighters: A Strategic Move Toward Sustainable Air Cargo
In a significant development in the global air freight sector, MNG Airlines, a Türkiye-based logistics provider, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire two Airbus A350F freighters. This move marks a strategic expansion of MNG’s cargo fleet and aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing sustainability, efficiency, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving logistics landscape.
The agreement, announced on June 18, 2025, during the Paris Air Show, positions MNG Airlines as a forward-thinking player in the cargo aviation market. The A350F is Airbus’ latest freighter model, designed to meet both current and future demands of air cargo transport, especially in the context of increasing global e-commerce and the need for greener aviation solutions.
The A350F: A Next-Generation Freighter
Engineering and Performance Highlights
The Airbus A350F is engineered as a high-efficiency, long-range freighter capable of carrying up to 111 tonnes of cargo over a distance of 8,700 kilometers. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft offers up to 40% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to older freighter models. These performance metrics are not only impressive but also critical in helping airlines meet tightening environmental regulations.
Constructed with over 70% advanced materials, including composites and titanium, the A350F is lighter than competing aircraft in its class. This weight reduction contributes directly to its fuel efficiency and payload capacity, offering airlines a significant operational advantage.
One of the standout features of the A350F is its main deck cargo door, the largest in the industry, which allows for greater loading flexibility and faster turnaround times. This is particularly beneficial for operators dealing with diverse cargo types, from e-commerce parcels to oversized freight.
“The A350F will bring new generation efficiency and performance as well as new levels of capacity and unprecedented loading flexibility.”, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales, Airbus Commercial Aircraft
Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance
The A350F is designed to fully comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) 2027 CO₂ emissions standards. This positions it as a future-proof solution for airlines aiming to stay ahead of regulatory changes. Moreover, the aircraft will be capable of operating on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aligning with industry goals for increased SAF usage.
This emphasis on sustainability is not just a marketing angle; it reflects a broader shift in the aviation industry. Airlines and manufacturers alike are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints, and aircraft like the A350F are central to achieving those goals.
For MNG Airlines, the environmental benefits of the A350F align with its strategic goals. By investing in a more sustainable fleet, the airline enhances its brand credibility and operational resilience in a market increasingly shaped by environmental considerations.
Market Positioning and Capabilities
The A350F is poised to compete directly with Boeing’s 777 Freighter and other large cargo aircraft. Its design integrates lessons learned from the A350 passenger variant but optimizes for cargo operations. This includes a reinforced fuselage, advanced avionics, and aerodynamic improvements that collectively enhance performance and reduce operational costs.
With a payload capacity that supports high-density cargo and a range that enables non-stop intercontinental flights, the A350F is well-suited for long-haul routes. This makes it ideal for MNG Airlines, which operates across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.
As global trade and e-commerce continue to grow, aircraft like the A350F provide the flexibility and efficiency needed to meet shifting logistics demands. For MNG, this acquisition is not just about fleet expansion, it’s about future-proofing its operations.
MNG Airlines: Strategic Growth Through Innovation
Expanding Global Reach
Founded in 1996, MNG Airlines has grown into a key player in international air cargo, offering both scheduled and charter services. With its headquarters in Türkiye and operational hubs across multiple continents, the airline is strategically positioned along major global trade routes.
The acquisition of two A350F freighters will further enhance MNG’s ability to serve high-demand corridors, particularly those connecting Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. These regions are experiencing increased cargo volumes due to e-commerce expansion and shifting supply chain dynamics.
Murathan Doruk Günal, CEO of Mapa Group and Chairman of MNG Airlines, highlighted the strategic value of the deal: “This agreement for two A350F deepens a partnership with Airbus across its full range of freighter programmes. This move strengthens our position across key trade lanes… and gives us added flexibility to meet evolving cargo demands.”
Meeting Evolving Cargo Demands
The air cargo industry is undergoing a transformation, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. E-commerce, in particular, has created demand for faster, more reliable, and more flexible logistics solutions. The A350F’s design caters to these needs with its large cargo capacity, long range, and efficient fuel consumption.
MNG Airlines’ decision to invest in the A350F reflects a commitment to staying ahead of these market trends. The aircraft’s capabilities will support a wide range of cargo types, from high-value electronics to perishable goods, allowing MNG to diversify its service offerings.
Additionally, the freighter’s advanced fuel efficiency and SAF compatibility align with the growing demand for greener logistics solutions. This positions MNG as a preferred partner for environmentally conscious clients and strengthens its competitive edge.
Partnership with Airbus
MNG’s collaboration with Airbus is not new, but the A350F order marks a deepening of this partnership. Airbus has been actively expanding its freighter portfolio to compete more aggressively in the cargo market, and securing orders from established carriers like MNG adds credibility to its efforts.
For Airbus, the MNG deal is a vote of confidence in the A350F’s market potential. It also signals that the aircraft is resonating with operators looking for modern, sustainable, and high-capacity freighters.
As the A350F continues its development, Airbus is working closely with customers to ensure seamless integration into their fleets. This includes training, support, and operational planning, all of which are critical to maximizing the aircraft’s value.
Conclusion
The decision by MNG Airlines to acquire two Airbus A350F freighters is a strategic move that aligns with the airline’s growth ambitions and the broader evolution of the air cargo industry. With its advanced engineering, sustainability credentials, and operational flexibility, the A350F is well-positioned to meet the needs of modern logistics providers.
As global cargo volumes continue to rise and environmental regulations tighten, investments in next-generation aircraft like the A350F will become increasingly essential. MNG Airlines’ proactive approach underscores its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, traits that will define the future of air freight.
FAQ
What is the Airbus A350F?
The A350F is a next-generation freighter aircraft developed by Airbus, designed for high efficiency, long range, and reduced environmental impact.
Why did MNG Airlines choose the A350F?
MNG Airlines selected the A350F to enhance its cargo capacity, improve fuel efficiency, and align with sustainability goals.
When will the A350F enter service?
The A350F is currently under development, with entry into service planned for 2027.
Sources: Airbus News, Airbus A350F Overview, ICAO CORSIA, Rolls-Royce Trent XWB, IATA Air Cargo Market Analysis
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
ETF Airways Adds Fourth Boeing 737-800 to Its Fleet
Croatian ACMI operator ETF Airways inducts Boeing 737-800 9A-ICF, growing its fleet to five aircraft.
This is original reporting and analysis by AirPro News.
Croatian charter and ACMI operator ETF Airways has expanded its operational capacity with the induction of a Boeing 737-800, registered as 9A-ICF. The addition brings the carrier’s total fleet to five aircraft, supporting its growing footprint in the European wet-lease market.
The airline announced the fleet addition in early June 2026 through an official company statement. The aircraft represents the fourth Boeing 737-800 to join the Zagreb-based operator, which specializes in providing Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) services to partner airlines.
Aircraft history and specifications
The newly inducted Boeing 737-800, specifically a 737-8FZ variant, is powered by CFM International CFM56-7B26 engines and configured with 189 economy-class seats. According to fleet data from AvioRadar, the airframe holds Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 29659 and Line Number 3280.
Prior to joining ETF Airways, the aircraft operated for multiple carriers across Asia and Europe. Its operational history includes the following milestones:
- May 2010: Completed its first flight and was delivered to Shandong Airlines, registered as B-5531.
- September 2018: Transferred to South Korean low-cost carrier Eastar Jet, registered as HL8325.
- February 2026: Placed in storage under the Norwegian Air Shuttle Air Operator Certificate, registered as LN-NIK.
- June 2026: Officially entered service with ETF Airways as 9A-ICF.
In its announcement, ETF Airways highlighted the role of the new aircraft in maintaining operational reliability.
As our fleet continues to grow, so does our commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and exceptional service to our partners and passengers around the world.
Strategic growth and diversification
The arrival of 9A-ICF follows a period of strategic diversification for ETF Airways. In March 2026, the airline took delivery of its first turboprop aircraft, an ATR 72-600 registered as 9A-ATR. This marked a departure from its previously all-jet fleet, allowing the company to target regional market segments and short-haul ACMI contracts.
The fleet expansion aligns with broader infrastructure investments by the company. In late 2025, ETF Airways outlined plans to establish a dedicated maintenance base at Zadar Airport (ZAD) in Croatia, alongside the formation of independent maintenance and travel subsidiaries.
AirPro News analysis
We view ETF Airways’ dual-pronged fleet strategy as a calculated response to shifting demands in the European ACMI sector. By maintaining a core fleet of 189-seat Boeing 737-800s, the airline can seamlessly integrate into the summer schedules of major European leisure and low-cost carriers. Simultaneously, the recent introduction of the ATR 72-600 provides the flexibility to serve thinner regional routes where narrowbody jets are economically unviable. Securing mid-life 737-800s from the secondary market remains a cost-effective method for ACMI operators to scale capacity without the capital expenditure required for new-generation aircraft.
Sources: ETF Airways
Photo Credit: ETF Airways
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Azorra Completes Placement of 12 Ex-EGYPTAIR A220-300s
Azorra delivers final ex-EGYPTAIR A220-300 to Breeze Airways, with four airframes parted out to address PW1500G engine shortages.
Aircraft lessor Azorra has finalized the placement of 12 Airbus A220-300 aircraft formerly operated by EGYPTAIR, concluding a transaction that redistributes the narrowbody jets to new operators and dismantles select airframes to ease industry-wide supply chain constraints.
In a press release issued on June 10, 2026, Azorra confirmed the delivery of the final aircraft from the portfolio to Breeze Airways. The lessor initially purchased the 12 aircraft in February 2024 to facilitate the Egyptian flag carrier’s fleet transformation program.
Fleet redistribution and strategic part-outs
According to reporting by Air Data News, the 12 aircraft have been divided among three primary destinations. Breeze Airways received seven of the airframes, while Cyprus Airways took delivery of one.
The remaining four aircraft were allocated for a more unconventional purpose. In April 2025, Azorra entered an agreement with Delta Material Services to part out the four young airframes. Cirium Profiles data indicates this move was designed to supply critical components and spare Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines to support Delta Air Lines and its active A220 fleet.
Azorra Chief Executive Officer John Evans stated the transaction demonstrates the company’s ability to create innovative solutions across the aviation ecosystem.
“Beyond expanding our A220 portfolio, these aircraft are helping address critical spare engine and parts availability challenges while supporting operators around the world,” Evans said.
Evans also noted the collaboration of Airbus and Pratt & Whitney throughout the complex transaction process, reaffirming the lessor’s confidence in the A220’s economics and performance.
EGYPTAIR’s operational shift
The sale of the A220-300 fleet resolves ongoing operational challenges for EGYPTAIR. Aviation Week previously reported that the carrier had grounded portions of its A220 fleet due to durability issues and maintenance delays associated with the PW1500G engines.
By divesting the relatively young aircraft, EGYPTAIR aims to improve maintenance commonality and focus on other aircraft types within its network.
Capt. Ahmed Adel, Chairman & CEO of EGYPTAIR Holding Company, noted the transaction formed an important part of the airline’s fleet transformation strategy. He expressed confidence that the aircraft would continue to deliver strong value for their new operators.
AirPro News analysis
The decision to part out four young Airbus A220-300 airframes underscores the severity of the supply chain constraints currently impacting the global aviation industry. We view this as a highly pragmatic asset management strategy. While parting out early-life airframes is typically a last resort, the chronic shortage of spare PW1500G engines has altered the economic calculus for lessors and operators alike.
By sacrificing a portion of the ex-EGYPTAIR fleet, Azorra is enabling Delta Air Lines to keep a larger portion of its own A220 fleet operational. This transaction also solidifies Azorra’s position as a dominant player in the A220 market. The lessor currently has 28 A220s in service globally and another 15 on order, representing a significant portion of its 338-asset portfolio.
Sources: Azorra
Photo Credit: Azorra
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
ACG Extends $3.1 Billion Credit Facility to June 2030
Aviation Capital Group extends its $3.1B revolving credit facility to 2030, backed by 24 banks and a 121-aircraft 737 MAX backlog.
Aviation Capital Group (ACG) has secured long-term liquidity by extending the maturity of its $3.1 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility to June 2030.
Announced in a press release on June 10, 2026, the amendment and restatement of the facility was completed with JPMorgan Chase Bank acting as the administrative agent. The extension from its previous June 2028 maturity date provides the Newport Beach, California-based aircraft lessor with continued financial flexibility to fund new aircraft deliveries and support its global airline customer base.
Facility details and banking syndicate
The $3.1 billion facility is supported by commitments from 24 financial institutions. This core credit line is part of ACG’s broader liquidity strategy, which includes approximately $5.1 billion in total revolving commitments. Alongside the primary syndicate, ACG maintains a $1.5 billion line of credit provided by its parent company, Tokyo Century Corporation, and a separate $500 million revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders based in Asia.
Matthew Novell, Vice President of Capital Markets and Assistant Treasurer of ACG, stated that the extension reflects the strength of the company’s platform and the depth of its global banking relationships.
“This extension further enhances our liquidity and financial flexibility, enabling us to continue investing in our fleet, support our airline customers and execute on our growth objectives,” Novell said.
Fleet expansion and corporate restructuring
The extended credit facility arrives as ACG actively expands its portfolio, which stood at approximately 500 owned, managed, and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2026. The lessor currently places aircraft with roughly 90 Airlines across 50 countries. To support this fleet growth, ACG finalized an Orders for 50 Boeing 737 MAX jets on January 13, 2026, splitting the commitment evenly between the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737 MAX 10 variants. This order increased the company’s total 737 MAX backlog to 121 aircraft.
Deliveries are ongoing, with ACG handing over its first of six new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to Royal Air Maroc on March 31, 2026. The lessor has also restructured its executive team to manage these manufacturer relationships, appointing Rob Downes to the newly created role of Chief Original Equipment OEMs Officer on April 16, 2026.
AirPro News analysis
We view the successful extension of ACG’s $3.1 billion credit facility as a strong indicator of institutional confidence in the aircraft leasing sector. By pushing the maturity date to 2030, ACG insulates itself from near-term refinancing risks while securing the capital required to absorb its expanding Boeing 737 MAX order book. The backing of 24 financial institutions, combined with the $1.5 billion backstop from Tokyo Century, positions the lessor to capitalize on high global demand for narrowbody lift even as it navigates a transition period following the May 31, 2026, departure of Chief Financial Officer Craig Segor.
Sources: Aviation Capital Group
Photo Credit: Boeing
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