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Holding a degree in Aerospace Technology, Tom is a certified pilot and a passionate specialist in European aviation. As Content Manager of Simple Flying, he leads the content team overseeing all aspects of Simple Flying’s daily output. Tom works closely with airlines around the world to provide topical content and has provided commentary for other outlets, including the BBC. Based in Frankfurt, Germany.
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Last Updated: 02:55 AM EST Sep 29 2026 by Tom Boon
Welcome to our live coverage of the first flight of the Airbus A350 Freighter. Simple Flying’s Tom Boon is on the ground in Toulouse reporting on the historic milestone for Airbus. Join us on this page throughout the day for the latest updates on the flight’s progress.
Expected Flight Times
Tuesday, September 29th, 02:55 PM EST
While the actual flight times will be dictated by operational, safety, and weather conditions, Airbus has given us some idea of when the flight is expected to occur. According to the latest timetable published by the manufacturer, around four hours of flight time is expected:
- First Flight Take-off: 10:30 am-10:45 am (4:30 am-10:30 am Eastern)
- Flyover, Landing, & Taxiing: 2:30 pm-3:15 pm (8:30 am-9:15 am Eastern)
The Background
Announced in July 2021, the Airbus A350 Freighter is the newest addition to the European Planemaker’s product lineup. With 115 firm orders, the jet is set to compete against Boeing’s 777-8F. Airbus does, however, have an ace up its sleeve when it comes to designing the next major freighter. It is based on an aircraft that has already been flying for over a decade.
The Airbus A350F is somewhat unique in its design as a “factory fresh” freighter. Unlike most aircraft used for freight movements around the globe, this aircraft has a composite fuselage. This is something that has not been utilised on freighter aircraft before.
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
