Australian airline Qantas is planning to be the first pioneering airline to fly direct from London Heathrow (LHR) or New York (JFK) to its Sydney (SYD) hub. However, in a further four-month delay to ‘Project Sunrise’ plans, Qantas is now expected to receive its first delivery for their new Airbus A350-1000-ULR aircraft fleet in April 2027, rather than late 2026. Qantas then plans to announce the first ultra-long-haul schedules in mid-June 2026, most likely to start flying in late 2027, rather than in the Spring.
Ultra-long-haul flights
A spokesperson for manufacturer Airbus said this delay was:
“largely due to the impact of (undisclosed) supply chain issues.” Qantas has confirmed the aircraft are currently in the paint shop in Toulouse and will start test flights in a ‘number of weeks’, while pilot simulator training is already underway in Sydney.
In a statement to Newswire, a Qantas spokesperson said:
“We continue to work closely with Airbus on the delivery and certification process that will enable us to begin operating these history-making ultra-long-haul flights.”
‘Project Sunrise’ will be possible due to the use of 12 new custom made Airbus A350-1000-ULR aircraft which can hold an additional 20,000 litres of fuel. It is the largest widebody aircraft currently in production. The ambitious flights would take 19 hours, covering 10,573 miles. Whilst it is already possible to fly non-stop with Qantas from London to Perth, 9,009 miles, these flights have to refuel in Singapore. The new planned direct service is expected to cut four hours off total current travel times.
Spacious and innovative
The flights will offer passengers 238 seats, which are likely to cost a premium, not just because the service is unique but due to the extra fuel, extra pilots and cabin crew required. The aircraft will be spacious and innovative, featuring six first class suites, 52 business class seats, 40 premium economy seats and 140 economy seats. Future Qantas plans are likely to include direct flights from LHR and JFK to Melbourne (MEL).
The name ‘Project Sunrise’ pays homage to Qantas’ historic flights during World War II which were airborne between Perth and Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) for long enough to see two sunrises.
Would you be keen to fly direct to Sydney from London or New York? Let us know in the comments below.
