Qantas reveals first ultra long-haul ‘Project Sunrise’ aircraft

Qantas has revealed the images of the first ‘Project Sunrise’ aircraft scheduled fly non-stop from Australia to London and New York.

The Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) is on the assembly line following the completion of major production milestones at a European manufacturing facility in Toulouse.

The aircraft will be transferred to a new hangar where it will have engines and flight test instruments installed in preparation for an extensive test flight programme from next year.

The specially configured ultra long range A350 will fly for up to 22 hours non-stop, made possible by an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems. 

The direct services from Australia’s east coast will cut up to four hours off total travel time, compared with one-stop services today.

The cabin is being designed to give passengers more space, with a 238-seat configuration against the 300-plus seats layout used by other A350-1000 operators. 

This includes a purpose-built wellbeing zone located between the premium economy and economy cabins featuring integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programmes, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.

The cabins have been developed from the ground up in collaboration with aviation specialists, including sleep scientists working to combat jetlag through features such as customised lighting design and timed meal service.

The first of 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services due to start in the first half of 2027.

Qantas Group chief executive Vanessa Hudson said: “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.

“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 minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing.”