Australia’s leading airline, Qantas, has unveiled the initial photos of its cutting-edge ultra-long-haul Airbus aircraft, set to achieve a groundbreaking 22-hour non-stop flight. This innovative jet is slated to establish a new aviation milestone by directly connecting Sydney to London and New York by 2027, marking the longest commercial flight ever operated globally.
The aircraft, known as the A350-1000ULR, is currently under construction in Toulouse, France, with its key components such as the fuselage, wings, and landing gear already assembled. Qantas presented this significant progress during its annual general meeting in Brisbane, emphasizing the aircraft’s role as a game-changer in international travel.
Designed to be the cornerstone of Qantas’s ambitious Project Sunrise initiative, the A350-1000ULR aims to link Australia’s east coast with major cities worldwide without layovers. Each flight is anticipated to last up to 22 hours, offering passengers time savings of up to four hours compared to current one-stop routes.
Following the completion of major assembly, the jet will undergo engine and flight instrument installation in a dedicated hangar before commencing an extensive testing regimen in 2026. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson praised this achievement as a pivotal moment in the airline’s global aspirations.
Vanessa Hudson stated, “Qantas has a long-standing tradition of breaking aviation barriers due to Australia’s geographical location. Project Sunrise will not only conquer the challenges of distance but also revolutionize the way our passengers traverse the globe.”
The aircraft’s extraordinary range is made feasible by an additional 20,000-liter rear fuel tank and state-of-the-art onboard systems, ensuring optimal endurance, comfort, and safety. When Project Sunrise launches in 2027, it will enable non-stop flights across the globe, a feat previously deemed unattainable.
To address the physical demands of ultra-long-haul travel, Qantas has collaborated with Australian designer David Caon and researchers from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. This team, comprising sleep scientists, has devised tailored lighting schemes and meal timing strategies to mitigate jet lag effects.
Differing from the standard A350-1000 model accommodating over 300 passengers, Qantas’s variant will seat only 238 travelers, providing enhanced personal space. It will introduce a unique “Wellbeing Zone” between Premium Economy and Economy classes, featuring amenities like stretch handles, guided exercise screens, a hydration station, and light refreshments to ensure passenger comfort throughout the journey.
Named in homage to Qantas’s historic “Double Sunrise” flights during World War II, Project Sunrise embodies the airline’s pioneering spirit, pushing the boundaries of air travel once more with the latest generation of aircraft.
In addition to this milestone, Qantas revealed the introduction of a new domestic travel class, Economy Plus, offering passengers extra legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated overhead locker space. The upgrade will be available for purchase starting February, with complimentary access for elite frequent flyers.
The initial delivery of one of the twelve A350-1000ULR aircraft is anticipated by late 2026, paving the way for commercial operations in early 2027. Qantas expressed immense enthusiasm for the project, heralding it as a momentous occasion for international aviation.
