Qantas’ ‘Project Sunrise’ has reached a significant milestone with the first Airbus A350-1000ULR on the assembly line in Toulouse, France. This marks a key step toward the airline’s historic non-stop flights between Australia, London and New York.
The new aircraft: Airbus A350-1000ULR
Qantas and Airbus have released the first images of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft, following the completion of major production milestones at the Airbus manufacturing facility in France.
The forward, centre and rear fuselage sections have now been joined, along with the wings, tail section and landing gear now attached.
This week the aircraft will transfer to a new hangar where it will have engines and flight test instruments installed, preparing it for an extensive test flight programme in 2026.
These A350-1000ULRs are specially configured to enable the world’s longest commercial flights, connecting Australia’s east coast non-stop to London and New York for the first time. The aircraft will fly up to 22 hours non-stop, made possible by an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems. Every element of the aircraft is designed around the passenger’s comfort and wellbeing.
The direct services will cut up to four hours off total travel time, compared with one-stop services today. The new experience aims to make ultra-long-haul travelling smoother, more efficient and more relaxing.
‘Project Sunrise’ takes off
Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson said the progress brings Project Sunrise one step closer to reality:
“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, but it will also fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world,” said Ms Hudson.
“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 jet lag and maximise wellbeing.”
Cabins design overhaul
The cabins have been developed from the ground up in collaboration with aviation specialists, Australian industrial designer David Caon, and a multidisciplinary team of experts from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. This includes sleep scientists working to combat jetlag through features like unique, customisable lighting design and timed meal services.
Moreover, the cabin design will give passengers more space, with a 238-seat configuration versus the 300-plus-seat layout used by other A350-1000 operators. This includes a purpose-built Wellbeing Zone located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins. The Wellbeing Zone features integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programmes, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.
The first of the 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services commencing in the first half of 2027.
The ‘Project Sunrise‘ owes its name to the airline’s historic ‘Double Sunrise’ endurance flights during the Second World War, which remained airborne long enough to see two sunrises.
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