First announced in 2017, Qantas Airways has officially confirmed that its highly anticipated ‘Project Sunrise’ will launch in 2026. With the first Airbus A350-1000 scheduled to enter service in mid-2026, the airline is set to enhance global connectivity. If all goes to plan, the long-awaited 2026 launch of the project will see direct flights between Sydney and New York, as well as Sydney and London.
Bringing Australia Closer to the World in Comfort and Style
After years of delays and development, notably, the disruption of Covid and the departure of former CEO Alan Joyce, the airline has maintained its ambition of revolutionising air travel by operating the world’s longest non-stop commercial flights. With the rise of international travel, Project Sunrise promises to bring Australia closer to the world.
In 2022, the airline confirmed the purchase of 12 Airbus A350-1000s, a significant step towards realising the project. The new Airbus fleet will expand Qantas’s international network. In prioritising passenger comfort, the airline will set the stage for a new standard in ultra-long-haul travel. The A350-1000, while having the capacity to carry up to 300 passengers, will only carry 238 to ensure passenger comfort. The aircraft will feature ergonomic cabins with more generous leg room and enhanced amenities specifically designed for ultra-long-haul flights. By enabling non-stop flights spanning up to 20 hours, Qantas’s Project Sunrise sets a new standard for commercial aviation.
Time-Saving, Direct Flights and Expanded Market Reach
While Qantas has not yet announced specific start dates for these direct flights, the newly announced 2026 launch date remains firm. Once the necessary operational infrastructure is in place, the delivery of the A350-1000s Down-Under will see intercontinental travel transformed. The new service will provide a time-efficient alternative to the current one-stop flights available. With Project Sunrise, passengers will no longer have to transit through other major hubs like Dubai or Singapore. The highly anticipated non-stop connection is expected to be a game-changer for both business and leisure travellers. The significant reduction in travel time is also expected to carry economic benefits as Qantas is expected to expand its market reach in Europe and the U.S.
Project Sunrise will offer a more direct link between Australia and two of the world’s busiest flight routes. With its focus on passenger comfort and convenience, the project promises to redefine intercontinental air travel. Once in operation, the project will no doubt represent a major milestone in making Australia more accessible to the world. With 2026 growing ever closer, watch out! Direct flights connecting Sydney with New York and London are on the horizon.
Do you think Qantas Airways’ non-stop flights in the new A350-1000s will prove popular? Let us know in the comments below
I think that the project sunrise flights will transform the kangaroo route, twenty hours in a comfortable environment, half of which may well be asleep actually isn’t too challenging, indeed the existing stopover flights are far more tiring. Assuming that project sunrise is a success how long before BA challenges Qantas autonomy.
These will be premium fares. Very premium. To save how many hours? The Auckland to NYC is already a very long and premium priced fare. No thanks. I will compete with the rabble for a competitive fare
Agony in economy no doubt
With Sunrise, Qantas is flying to the East Coast of Australia, including direct flights to Melbourne and Brisbane, as well as Sydney.