The new service, dubbed Project Sunrise, will connect Sydney with New York and London using a new fleet of custom-designed Airbus A350-1000 aircraft that can take off with a full passenger load
Australian airline Qantas is gearing up to launch the world’s longest non-stop flights in 2026, linking Sydney with London and New York.
The flights will span between 19 and 22 hours, allowing passengers to witness two sunrises during their journey – hence the name Project Sunrise. Once launched, this new service could shave off up to four hours compared to the current one-stop routes. Qantas is reportedly pouring £1.2 billion into the project, acquiring 12 custom-designed Airbus A350-1000 planes for these ultra-long-haul flights.
These aircraft are specially constructed with additional fuel tanks and cutting-edge technology to manage the routes. Project Sunrise was initially announced in 2017 but faced setbacks due to the pandemic, with Qantas now anticipating to commence the flights in mid-2026.
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The airline also forecasts that the new routes will boost annual earnings by £261 million once all aircraft are operational. This new service is also fantastic news for passengers who can look forward to a luxurious experience on board.
The Airbus A350-1000 will boast six enclosed first-class suites, 52 business suites, 40 premium economy seats, and 140 economy seats. First-class passengers will enjoy flatbeds, reclining armchairs and 32-inch touchscreens, while economy passengers can expect more roomy seating and advanced entertainment systems, reports the Express.
In the first-class suites, passengers will benefit from 50 per cent more suite space than the A380, a flat bed and separate reclining armchair, a large flexible work and dining space for one or two people and a full-length wardrobe.
For economy passengers, head rests will be six-way adjustable, seats will have a multi-use seatback table, two USB-C outlets each, a 13.3 inch entertainment touchscreen with Bluetooth audio connectivity and an extra shelf for personal devices, such as phones and tablets.
The upcoming flights are set to feature a ‘Wellbeing Zone,’ open to every flyer for a stretch and quick refreshments, aiming at lessening jetlag while travelling vast distances. It will be located between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins, and passengers will be able to follow specially curated guided movements on larger monitors, as well as healthy refreshments.
In the comments of a YouTube video showing what the interior of the new planes will look like, one person commented: “First, business, premium and the well-being zone are spot on! Surprising to see economy class on a flight that long though… I’m surprised it’s not all premium.”
Another added: “All these seats looks amazing, love the wireless charger spots, love the colour schemes, amazing touch with the seat and bed, separate.”
Qantas boss Vanessa Hudson has spoken out, expressing that these new routes will shrink the gap between Australia and global destinations, offering a more straightforward and comfy flight path. The airline is gunning for travellers who favour directness and comfort in their flight choices.
