Australia’s leading airline, Qantas, has unveiled the initial images of its revolutionary ultra-long-range Airbus aircraft, set to make history with a remarkable 22-hour non-stop flight. The cutting-edge jet is scheduled to link Sydney directly to London and New York by 2027, establishing a new global milestone for the longest commercial flight ever undertaken.
The Airbus, known as the A350-1000ULR, is currently being pieced together in Toulouse, France, with its major components such as the fuselage, wings, and landing gear already assembled. Qantas proudly displayed this progress at its annual general meeting in Brisbane, hailing the next-generation aircraft as a game-changer for international travel.
As a key component of Qantas’s ambitious Project Sunrise initiative, the A350-1000ULR aims to connect Australia’s east coast with major global cities without layovers. These flights are projected to last up to 22 hours, offering travelers a time-saving advantage of up to four hours compared to existing one-stop routes.
Following the assembly phase, the jet will transition to a dedicated hangar for the installation of engines and flight instruments before embarking on a comprehensive testing program in 2026. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson emphasized the significance of this milestone in realizing the airline’s global aspirations.
Vanessa Hudson stated, “Given Australia’s strategic location, Qantas has a rich history of breaking aviation barriers. Project Sunrise is poised not only to conquer the challenges of distance but to fundamentally transform how our customers explore the world.”
The A350-1000ULR’s unprecedented range is made achievable through an additional 20,000-liter rear fuel tank and state-of-the-art onboard systems, ensuring top-notch endurance, comfort, and safety. The launch of Project Sunrise in 2027 will facilitate non-stop flights covering half the globe, a feat previously deemed inconceivable.
To address the physical demands of extended long-haul travel, Qantas has collaborated with Australian designer David Caon and researchers from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. Together, they have devised tailored lighting schemes and meal timing strategies to mitigate jet lag.
Differing from the standard A350-1000 aircraft accommodating over 300 passengers, Qantas’s version will seat only 238 passengers, providing increased personal space. Additionally, a new “Wellbeing Zone” will be introduced between Premium Economy and Economy classes, featuring amenities such as stretch handles, guided exercise screens, a hydration station, and light refreshments to enhance passenger comfort throughout the journey.
The name “Project Sunrise” pays homage to Qantas’s historic “Double Sunrise” flights during World War II, symbolizing endurance and innovation in air travel. With the introduction of this new aircraft generation, Qantas aims to revive its pioneering spirit and redefine the boundaries of aviation.
In parallel to this groundbreaking development, Qantas announced the introduction of a new domestic travel class, Economy Plus, offering enhanced legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated overhead locker space. This upgrade will be accessible for purchase starting February, with complimentary access for premium frequent flyers.
The initial delivery of the first of 12 A350-1000ULR aircraft is expected by late 2026, paving the way for commercial operations in early 2027. Qantas expressed immense enthusiasm for the project, labeling it a pivotal moment for international aviation.
