Non-stop flights between the UK and Australia could be operating within two years, the boss of Qantas has forecast.
Chief executive Alan Joyce disclosed plans to fly the 19-hour route between London and Perth using new extended range Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners by 2017.
The aircraft had the range to be able to make the 14,000 kilometre journey, which would make it the longest commercial flight in the world, Air Transport World reported.
“This opens up direct service from Australia to Europe for the first time,” Joyce said.
Qantas has has eight B787-9 aircraft on order as part of plans to replace its B747 jumbo jets.
The new aircraft will have around 250 seats and include business class, premium economy and economy.
The potential flight path would need two pairs of pilots, extra cabin crew and a proper rest area for airline staff.
Qantas already operates the longest haul route in the world from Sydney to Dallas-Fort Worth.