The aircraft that will spend 22 hours in the air: Qantas' A350 takes shape
Direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to London and New York are closer. Qantas revealed images of the first Project Sunrise A350 during its assembly.
The first Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) for Qantas has entered the final assembly line in Toulouse, France. This aircraft is the first in the fleet designated for "Project Sunrise", the airline's plan to operate non-stop flights between Australia's east coast, London, and New York.
Qantas and Airbus released the first images of the aircraft, which already has its main fuselage sections (forward, center, and rear) joined, along with the wings, tail section, and landing gear.
According to Qantas, the aircraft will be transferred to a new hangar this week. There, its engines and flight test instruments will be installed to begin an extensive test flight program during 2026.
The ultra-long-range operation
These specially configured A350s will enable the world's longest commercial flights, connecting Sydney and Melbourne non-stop to London and New York for the first time. The flights will last up to 22 hours.
This capability is made possible by an additional 20,000-liter rear center fuel tank and enhanced systems. Qantas notes that these direct services will reduce total travel time by up to four hours compared to current one-stop routes.
"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," said Vanessa Hudson, Qantas Group CEO. "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 minimize jetlag and maximize wellbeing," she added.
A cabin focused on wellbeing
The cabins will feature a 238-seat configuration, a much lower density compared to the 300-plus seat standard used by other A350-1000 operators.
The design includes a purpose-built "Wellbeing Zone" located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins. This space will feature integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station, and refreshments.
The delivery of the first of the 12 aircraft on order is scheduled for late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services expected to begin in the first half of 2027.
