Qantas have announced that London will be the first destination for their ground-breaking ultra-long-haul ‘Project Sunrise’ flights.
The service is set to commence in October 2027, deploying the new Airbus A350-1000ULR. Test flights from the Toulouse-based manufacturers have demonstrated the aircraft in-air for the first time, showing off the specially-configured 20,000-litre fuel tank that will enable the jet to fly from Sydney to London non-stop.
Qantas have ordered 12 A350-1000s and expect to add New York as a second destination later in 2027. The airline will continue to operate the popular Sydney-Singapore-London service alongside Project Sunrise for those seeking a less expensive stopover route.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said:
Since we first flew the Kangaroo Route in 1947, where we stopped seven times on the way to London, every generation of aircraft has taken a stop out of the journey. Today, we’re taking out the last one. We made a commitment in 2017 that Qantas would conquer the final frontier of long-haul aviation and connect Australia’s east coast directly to London, something that has never before been possible. From October 2027, that promise becomes reality.
According to the airline, Australians’ demand for non-stop flying continues to rise, especially with premium travellers. Intent to book a non-stop air travel trip has risen by 12 percentage points from February this year to 80%.
To help passengers manage the significant journey time, Qantas will enhance the onboard experience on Project Sunrise flights. Potential features include a ‘wellness zone’ to allow for greater movement around the cabin, and assistance with managing jet lag.
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