Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier, has unveiled the first destination for its highly anticipated ultra-long-range Airbus A350-1000 jets, set to take flight as part of the groundbreaking Project Sunrise initiative in early 2027. This ambitious program aims to connect Australia’s east coast directly with far-flung global cities, slashing travel times and redefining long-haul aviation. The airline announced that Sydney to London will serve as the inaugural route for these next-generation aircraft, marking a historic milestone in its quest to conquer the “tyranny of distance” that has long challenged travel from Australia. With flight durations expected to exceed 20 hours, these non-stop journeys will rank among the longest commercial flights in the world, offering passengers a seamless alternative to traditional multi-stop itineraries.
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The Airbus A350-1000, specifically tailored for Project Sunrise, is a marvel of modern engineering designed to tackle ultra-long-haul missions. Qantas ordered 12 of these aircraft in May 2022, with an additional 12 added later, bringing the total to 24 jets slated for delivery over the coming years. The first aircraft is now expected to arrive in late 2026, with commercial operations commencing in early 2027 following a period of crew training and operational fine-tuning. Unlike standard A350-1000s, the Project Sunrise variants feature an extra fuel tank, certified by European regulators in mid-2024, enabling a range of over 10,000 nautical miles. This capability allows the aircraft to bridge Sydney and London—approximately 10,576 miles—without the need for refueling stops, a feat previously unachievable in regular commercial service.
To prepare for these marathon flights, Qantas has meticulously configured the A350-1000s with passenger comfort in mind. The aircraft will carry just 238 seats, a stark contrast to the typical 300-plus capacity of other A350s, ensuring a spacious layout across four classes: six first-class suites, 52 business-class suites, 40 premium economy seats, and 140 economy seats. This low-density design prioritizes legroom and personal space, with economy seats boasting a generous 33-inch pitch and premium economy offering 40 inches. The cabins feature innovative touches, such as a dedicated Wellbeing Zone between the premium economy and economy sections, where passengers can stretch, hydrate, and relax during the journey. Additionally, the aircraft will incorporate advanced lighting systems developed in collaboration with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre, designed to mimic natural light cycles and mitigate jet lag—a critical consideration for flights spanning multiple time zones.
The choice of London as the first destination reflects both strategic and symbolic importance. Sydney to London has been a cornerstone of Qantas’ international network since the 1940s, traditionally requiring a stopover, often in Singapore or Dubai. Project Sunrise eliminates that intermediary leg, cutting up to four hours off the total travel time and appealing to premium travelers willing to pay for the convenience of a direct flight. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson emphasized that the initial phase of Project Sunrise will focus on training pilots and cabin crew, with the first A350 likely operating shorter trans-Tasman flights to New Zealand in late 2026 before the London route launches. This phased approach ensures operational readiness for the demanding 20-plus-hour sectors, with three aircraft required to sustain daily Sydney-London service starting in early 2027. Beyond London, Qantas has plans to expand Project Sunrise to other cities like New York, Paris, and potentially Miami or Chicago, leveraging the A350’s extraordinary range. The early 2027 debut of the Sydney-London route will set the stage for this broader vision, positioning Qantas as a leader in ultra-long-haul travel. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, passenger-centric design, and ambitious route planning, Project Sunrise promises to transform how Australians connect with the world, starting with that first groundbreaking flight to London in 2027.