Silk Way West Airlines is doubling down on Airbus’ next-generation A350F freighter, adding two firm orders that will bring its total commitment to the aircraft to four.
The Baku-based cargo carrier said the expanded order forms part of its wider fleet modernisation and network expansion strategy. The A350F is expected to provide additional cargo capacity while delivering better fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared with older-generation freighters.
Silk Way West originally agreed to acquire two A350Fs in June 2022, with deliveries at the time scheduled for 2027-2028 and options secured for two additional aircraft.
The airline has now converted those additional commitments into firm orders, strengthening its relationship with Airbus and reinforcing its plans to develop a more modern and sustainable air cargo fleet.
For Airbus, the agreement adds another customer to the growing A350F programme. At the end of October 2025, the manufacturer said the freighter had accumulated 74 orders from 12 customers.
A350F joins wider fleet renewal
The A350F investment is part of a broader renewal programme at Silk Way West.
The carrier has also been expanding its Boeing 777 freighter fleet. The fourth of six 777Fs ordered by the airline was delivered in February 2026, with the remaining two aircraft expected to arrive in 2027.
Their delivery will complete the first phase of Silk Way West’s fleet renewal programme.
The airline’s move towards newer twin-engine freighters reflects a broader shift across the air cargo industry, as operators seek to replace older and less fuel-efficient aircraft while increasing available capacity.
For Silk Way West, combining Airbus A350F and Boeing 777 freighters will provide a modern fleet platform from which to expand its international network.
Strengthening Baku as an air cargo gateway
The fleet strategy also supports Silk Way West’s ambition to grow its operations from Baku and strengthen Azerbaijan’s position as a strategic cargo gateway connecting Europe and Asia with other major airfreight markets.
The A350F is expected to contribute to that strategy by combining long-haul cargo capability with improved operating efficiency and reduced emissions.
Meanwhile, Airbus is progressing with development of the aircraft. Assembly of the first A350F test aircraft is currently under way in Toulouse as the manufacturer moves the programme closer to entry into service.
For Silk Way West, the expanded four-aircraft A350F commitment represents another major step in building a younger, more efficient freighter fleet capable of supporting the carrier’s next phase of international growth.
