Airbus Completes A350F Freighter Main Deck Cargo Door in Spain
BY Composights
Published: 06 May 2026
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Airbus has completed the first main deck cargo door for its A350F freighter at its Illescas facility in Spain. The component has been delivered to the final assembly line in Toulouse for integration into the first test aircraft.
The cargo door is a large composite structure, featuring a cut-out width of 4.5 metres and an opening height of 4.3 metres. Positioned in the rear fuselage, the design supports loading efficiency while maintaining aircraft balance. The system also incorporates electrical actuation for door operation.
Manufacturing is carried out at Airbus Illescas site, which specialises in composite aerostructures. The facility produces the door skins and performs assembly before shipment for final integration. The component forms a key structural element within the freighter configuration.
The A350F programme includes two aircraft for flight testing between 2026 and 2027. The cargo door will be integrated into the aft fuselage section prior to final assembly as the programme progresses toward entry into service.
The A350F is designed to carry payloads of up to 111 tonnes with a range of approximately 8,700 kilometres. The aircraft incorporates a high proportion of advanced materials, supporting weight reduction and improved operational efficiency.
Large composite structures such as the cargo door play a central role in widebody aircraft design, enabling reduced weight and improved structural performance while supporting manufacturability at scale.
Source: Airbus | News
