Aussies are one step closer to direct London and New York flights, with Qantas unveiling the first pictures of its new long-haul aircraft on Friday morning.
Known as ‘Project Sunrise’, the service is named for the phenomenon where passengers on the London route see two sunrises during their flight. The first aircraft is now on the Airbus assembly line in France.
Qantas will operate 12 specially configured aircraft, enabling the world’s longest commercial flights and connecting Australia’s east coast – both Melbourne and Sydney – non-stop to London and New York for the very first time.
This is a significant milestone for the airline, with the historic flights set to begin in 2027, following an extensive test flight programme in 2026.
Qantas and Airbus released the first images of the A350-1000 ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft in Toulouse. Soon, it will have its engines and flight test instruments installed in preparation for test flights.
While some remain unconvinced by the concept, thousands of Aussies are thrilled by the idea of travelling overseas without a layover, even if it means spending 22 hours on a plane.
This extended flight time is possible thanks to an additional 20,000-litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced onboard systems.
Those who opt-in to the direct services will see their total travel time reduced by up to four hours compared to current one-stop journeys.
Aussies are one step closer to direct London and New York flights, with Qantas unveiling the first pictures of its new long-haul aircraft on Friday morning
Known as ‘Project Sunrise’, the service is named for the phenomenon where passengers on the London route see two sunrises during their flight. The first aircraft is now on the Airbus assembly line in France
Every aspect of the cabin has been designed to maximise passenger comfort and wellbeing, specifically for ultra-long-haul travel.
The cabin’s interior has been guided by ‘medical and scientific research carried out on research flights’ in partnership with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre.
The design also incorporates advice from sleep scientists aiming to combat jetlag, through innovations such as customised lighting and carefully timed meal service.
The Project Sunrise name pays tribute to the airline’s historic ‘Double Sunrise’ endurance flights of the Second World War, which stayed airborne long enough for passengers to witness two sunrises.
The A350 ‘cabins of the future’ will include a ‘wellbeing zone’ accessible to all passengers.
Situated between Premium Economy and Economy, the wellbeing zone will feature integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.
Passengers will also enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio connectivity.
Economy seats will offer the most generous seat pitch yet at 33 inches, with a six-way adjustable headrest, two fast USB-C charging outlets and a 13.3-inch entertainment touchscreen.
The A350 ‘cabins of the future’ will include a ‘wellbeing zone’ accessible to all passengers
Economy seats will offer the most generous seat pitch yet at 33 inches, with a six-way adjustable headrest, two fast USB-C charging outlets and a 13.3-inch entertainment touchscreen
The first of the 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services to commence in the first half of 2027
In Business, suites will feature sliding doors for privacy and adjustable dividers between alternating centre seats.
Each business suite will also include a large dining table, work surface, increased storage and innovative materials, providing exceptional inflight comfort.
There will also be six enclosed First suites, designed with the latest in textile innovation and ergonomic principles for a luxurious experience.
Each suite has a flat bed and a separate reclining armchair, as well as a spacious work and dining area for one or two people. A full-length wardrobe and several personal storage areas are also provided.
The economy seats (pictured) will have multi-use seatback tables
Guided stretching videos will be available for everyone in the wellness zone (pictured)
‘Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers. Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world,’ Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer, Vanessa Hudson, said.
‘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’.
The first of the 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services to commence in the first half of 2027.