23 Apr 2026 General

Project Sunrise edged closer to launch

A new era of ultra long-haul travel is on the horizon.

The first Airbus A350-1000ULR for Qantas has officially completed assembly and is preparing to enter the next phase – test flights.

It marks a major milestone for the airline’s long-awaited Project Sunrise, bringing the concept of non-stop flights from Australia to the world’s most distant cities closer than ever before.

Discover more about this new aircraft and what to expect below…

Redefining Long-Haul Travel

First announced in 2017, Project Sunrise set out to achieve what was once considered the final frontier of commercial aviation: direct flights from Australia’s east coast to London and New York.

To make this possible, Qantas selected the Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range), placing an order for 12 aircraft in May 2022. These aircraft are specifically designed to operate some of the longest commercial flights in the world, unlocking routes that previously required at least one stop.

The result is a fundamental shift in how Australians will travel – with journeys that are not only more direct, but significantly more efficient.

Faster, Simpler, More Direct

The A350-1000ULR will allow Qantas to operate nonstop flights such as:

Sydney to London
Sydney to New York

By removing the need for stopovers, total travel time could be reduced by up to four hours compared to traditional one-stop itineraries. Beyond time savings, it also means a more seamless experience – fewer connections, less time in transit and a smoother overall journey.

The first aircraft is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026, with additional long-range aircraft to follow as part of the broader fleet expansion.

Designed for the Longest Flights in the World

Operating flights of this length requires more than just range – it demands a complete rethink of the onboard experience.

Qantas has collaborated with leading designers and experts, including Caon Design, chef Neil Perry and the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre, to create an environment focused on comfort and wellbeing.

Wellbeing at the Core
A dedicated Wellbeing Zone will be available to all passengers, offering space to move, stretch and reset during the flight – a first for Qantas long-haul aircraft.

Smart Lighting for Jet Lag Reduction
The aircraft will feature advanced lighting systems with tailored settings such as “Sunrise,” “Sunset” and “Awake,” designed to align with circadian rhythms and help reduce jet lag.

More Space, Fewer Seats
The A350-1000ULR will have one of the lowest seat counts of any aircraft in its class, prioritising space and comfort across all cabins.

A New Standard Across Every Cabin

Each cabin has been reimagined to suit ultra-long-haul travel:

First Class
A private, enclosed suite featuring a two-metre flat bed and separate reclining armchair – more akin to boutique accommodation than traditional air travel.

Business Class
For the first time, Qantas Business suites will include sliding doors for added privacy, alongside enhanced comfort and design.

Premium Economy
Designed with longer journeys in mind, featuring an adjustable winged headrest and full leg support for improved rest.

Economy
More spacious seating with generous pitch and large entertainment screens with Bluetooth connectivity – delivering a more comfortable long-haul experience.

A New Dawn for Australian Travel

Project Sunrise represents more than just a new aircraft – it signals a shift in how Australians connect with the world.

Nonstop travel between Australia and major global cities will soon become a reality, redefining long-haul flying with a focus on efficiency, comfort and wellbeing.

As the first A350-1000ULR prepares for test flights, the countdown to this next chapter has truly begun.

The world is about to feel a whole lot closer.