air-cargo

Airbus Advances A350F Certification With Cargo Door Testing

Airbus is conducting extensive testing of the A350 freighter's main-deck cargo door and loading systems on large physical test rigs ahead of preliminary flights and certification. The aircraft is designed to handle 111 tonnes of payload. The Cargo Door Actuation System test demonstrator and Cargo Zero loading system test rig are preparing the A350F for flight trials and eventual market entry in the second half of 2027. The main-deck cargo door arrived at Airbus's Toulouse facility on April 21, with installation on the MSN 700 prototype beginning April 22. The new electrically-powered door mechanism opens and closes within 60 seconds and can operate in 40-knot wind conditions. A patented latching system reduces parts, weight, and costs compared to conventional designs. The door features a 170-inch clear opening and all-electric drive, eliminating the need for hydraulic lines. Repeated opening-and-closing cycles under simulated loads validate the electric actuators and latching mechanism.