Non-Stop London–Sydney Flights Move Closer as Qantas Reveals 22-Hour Aircraft
Qantas has presented new details of the aircraft planned for its Project Sunrise programme, which aims to introduce non-stop flights between London and Sydney. The Airbus A350-1000ULR is expected to enter service in the first half of 2027 and will also operate between Australia’s east coast and New York. Flight times may reach up to 22 hours, exceeding the current longest direct route between Singapore and New York.
Images released this week show the first aircraft progressing through final production stages in Toulouse, where Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines have been installed. The aircraft will undergo ground checks followed by a two-month flight testing period. Qantas confirmed that the extended range is supported by an additional fuel tank, allowing journeys that currently require refuelling stops to be completed without interruption.
Cabin layouts include First, Business, Premium Economy and Economy seating, together with a dedicated wellbeing area open to all travellers. The aircraft also features lighting sequences timed to match the destination’s time zone. Qantas says this approach is intended to help passengers adjust their sleep schedule during very long flights. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections will be available in every cabin, allowing personal devices to be used throughout the journey.
Key onboard features designed for long journeys
- Wellbeing Zone with space to stretch and move
- Lighting settings timed to destination time zone
- Enclosed First suites with lie-flat beds
- Business suites with sliding privacy doors
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity across cabins
Direct flights linking London with Sydney may simplify access to destinations across Australia, including Melbourne, Brisbane and coastal regions along New South Wales. Removing the need for a stopover may also shorten total journey time by several hours, allowing easier planning of onward domestic connections or regional travel across the country after arrival on the east coast.
The project reflects ongoing efforts to operate very long routes without refuelling stops. If launched as planned, these flights could affect how people organise trips between Europe, North America and Australia. Completing the journey in one flight may influence airline timetables, transfer choices and decisions between direct routes and itineraries that include a stop along the way.
