Key facts
- Qantas will launch the first non-stop London to Sydney flight in October 2027.
- The flight is expected to last approximately 22 hours.
- A specially modified Airbus A350-1000ULR will be used for the route.
- The modified aircraft includes extra fuel tanks and structural enhancements.
- Airbus is currently conducting flight tests for the modified A350-1000ULR.
Qantas is set to launch the world's longest non-stop flight route, connecting London and Sydney, in October 2027. The journey is expected to take approximately 22 hours, significantly reducing travel time by four hours compared to current one-stop options. To achieve this record-breaking feat, Qantas will utilize a specially modified Airbus A350-1000ULR, dubbed the centerpiece of its 'Project Sunrise' initiative.
The modified A350-1000ULR features enhancements for extreme endurance and passenger well-being, including extra fuel tanks and structural improvements. Airbus has commenced flight testing of the aircraft in France, working towards European certification. Bookings for the inaugural Sydney to London flight are anticipated to open in February 2027.
This new route will surpass Singapore Airlines' current longest flight between Singapore and New York. Project Sunrise aims to attract premium travelers willing to pay for the convenience of non-stop travel, though ticket prices are expected to be higher due to the aircraft's lower capacity and increased operational costs. The project has faced approximately five years of delays attributed to COVID-19, the complexity of the A350 redesign, issues with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, and supply chain challenges.