Qantas is advancing Project Sunrise to enable ultra-long-haul flights from Australia to Europe and North America using the Airbus A350-1000ULR, with the aircraft assembled in Toulouse and undergoing a two-month flight-testing program.

The cabin design focuses on passenger wellbeing, featuring lighting scenes to combat jet lag and continuous connectivity for entertainment and devices.

The A350-1000ULR will offer a 22-hour non-stop range thanks to an additional 20,000-liter rear centre fuel tank, with a reduced 238-seat layout to prioritize space and payload flexibility.

Experts see Project Sunrise as potentially reshaping long-haul aviation by reducing hub dependence and enabling real-time routing to avoid geopolitical disruption.

Extreme-long-range design yields a cruising speed around Mach 0.85 and an estimated 20–22 hour flight time for the Sydney–London and Sydney–New York segments.

Delivery is slated for late 2026, positioning Qantas to operate the world’s longest scheduled flights, including Sydney–London and Sydney–New York nonstops.

Industry observers acknowledge potential market questions about ultra-long private travel, but experts point to strong demand from corporate, business, and first-class travelers who value time and reduced risk from airspace closures.

The program includes testing of systems, performance, and certification for the A350-ULR modifications to ensure reliable 22-hour non-stop operations.

Initial ultra-long routes are planned from Sydney to London and Sydney to New York in the first half of 2027, enabling direct connections that bypass traditional hubs.

A321XLRs will complement the fleet, enabling more efficient service on thinner routes while integrating with existing A330s, A380s, 737s, and 787-9s in a unified network.

Qantas plans to name 12 aircraft after stars, honoring WWII-era Catalina flying boats, with the first name to be revealed mid-year.

The project prioritizes a premium, less disrupted travel experience with Wellbeing Zones and premium self-serve refreshments, designed by interior designer David Caon.