Qantas Unveils World’s Longest Flights: Australia to London & New York in 22 Hours
Qantas has reached a major milestone in its ambitious Project Sunrise, with the first A350-1000ULR aircraft nearing completion at Airbus’s Toulouse facility. These revolutionary flights will connect Australia’s east coast directly to London and New York with unprecedented 22-hour non-stop journeys, cutting travel time by up to four hours.
Key Takeaways
- First commercial flights expected to launch in first half of 2027
- 22-hour non-stop flights from Australia to London and New York
- Up to 4 hours saved compared to current one-stop services
- Special 238-seat configuration with enhanced passenger comfort
- 12 new aircraft to be delivered starting late 2026
Project Sunrise: The Next Frontier in Aviation
The name Project Sunrise honors Qantas’s historic ‘Double Sunrise’ endurance flights from World War II, where aircraft remained airborne long enough to witness two sunrises. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson stated this progress brings the project “one step closer to reality” and will “fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world.”
“These flights will cut up to four hours off the journey and transform how people experience ultra long-haul travel, through science-backed design to minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing,” Hudson added.
Aircraft Specifications and Production Timeline
The specially configured A350-1000ULR has completed major assembly milestones with all key airframe components now integrated. The aircraft features an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems enabling the record-breaking 22-hour endurance.
Production is advancing rapidly, with the aircraft scheduled for engine installation this week. Extensive test flights will commence in 2026, paving the way for the first of 12 aircraft deliveries in late 2026.
Revolutionary Cabin Design for Passenger Wellbeing
Qantas collaborated with aviation specialists, industrial designer David Caon, and sleep scientists from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre to develop cabins specifically for ultra-long-haul travel.
The aircraft features a spacious 238-seat configuration compared to standard 300-plus seat A350-1000s. A unique Wellbeing Zone between Premium Economy and Economy cabins offers:
- Integrated stretch handles for in-flight exercise
- Guided on-screen exercise programs
- Hydration station with refreshments
This science-backed approach aims to combat jet lag through optimized meal timing, lighting design, and passenger movement opportunities.
