Australia’s flagship airline Qantas has unveiled the initial images of its revolutionary ultra-long-haul Airbus aircraft, poised to set a new aviation record with 22-hour non-stop flights. The cutting-edge jet is set to establish direct connections between Sydney and London as well as New York by 2027, marking a significant milestone in commercial aviation history.
Currently under construction in Toulouse, France, the aircraft’s key components such as the fuselage, wings, and landing gear have been successfully integrated. Qantas presented this achievement at its annual general meeting in Brisbane, emphasizing the aircraft’s role as a game-changing advancement in global air travel.
The A350-1000ULR will play a central role in Qantas’ ambitious Project Sunrise initiative, aiming to link Australia’s east coast with major global cities without layovers. These groundbreaking flights are expected to last up to 22 hours, providing travelers with up to four hours of time savings compared to existing one-stop routes.
Following the assembly phase, the jet will be moved to a dedicated hangar for the installation of engines and flight equipment before commencing an extensive testing regimen in 2026. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson hailed this progress as a defining moment in the airline’s pursuit of global objectives.
Vanessa Hudson stated, “Qantas has a rich tradition of breaking barriers in aviation due to Australia’s unique geographical position. Project Sunrise will not only conquer the challenges of long distances but will also revolutionize how our customers explore the world.”
The aircraft’s exceptional range is made achievable through a supplementary 20,000-liter rear fuel tank and advanced onboard systems, ensuring top-tier endurance, comfort, and safety. With the launch of Project Sunrise in 2027, the seemingly impossible prospect of non-stop flights covering half the globe will become a reality.
To address the physical demands of extended travel, Qantas has collaborated with Australian designer David Caon and experts from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. Their joint efforts, which include input from sleep specialists, have led to the development of customized lighting schemes and meal timings to mitigate jet lag.
Differing from the standard A350-1000 aircraft accommodating over 300 passengers, Qantas’ version will host 238 travelers, offering enhanced personal space and introducing a novel “Wellbeing Zone” between Premium Economy and Economy classes. This area will feature amenities like stretch handles, guided exercise screens, a hydration station, and light snacks to ensure passengers feel rejuvenated throughout their journey.
The name “Project Sunrise” pays homage to Qantas’ historic “Double Sunrise” flights during World War II, where planes stayed airborne long enough to witness two sunrises in a single voyage. Through this new generation of aircraft, Qantas aims to revive that pioneering spirit by pushing the boundaries of air travel once more.
Additionally, the airline revealed the introduction of a new domestic travel class, Economy Plus, featuring added legroom, priority boarding, and exclusive overhead storage. This upgrade will be purchasable starting in February, with complimentary access for elite frequent flyers.
The initial delivery of one of 12 A350-1000ULR planes is scheduled for late 2026, paving the way for commercial operations in early 2027. Qantas expressed immense excitement for the project, labeling it as a significant milestone in international aviation.