Qantas has been working with its suppliers on “Project Sunrise” – its plan to connect long-distance destinations with just one flight for some time.
Well, that dream has been given form, with the first Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) rolling out of the Airbus Final Assembly line.
All the key airframe components, including the forward, centre and rear fuselage sections, have come together, along with the wings, tail section and landing gear, now attached, along with a few extra decals.
The aircraft will be transferred to a new hangar where it will have engines and flight test instruments installed, in preparation for an extensive test flight programme, commencing in 2026.
These specially configured A350-1000ULRs will enable Qantas to operate 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 for up to 22 hours non-stop, made possible by an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems, with every element designed around passenger comfort and wellbeing for ultra-long-haul operations.
The direct services will cut up to four hours off total travel time, compared with one-stop services today.
The Project Sunrise name is a nod to the airline’s historic ‘Double Sunrise’ endurance flights during the Second World War, which remained airborne long enough to see two sunrises.
Focus on the Cabin
With up to 22 hours non-stop, the passenger experience will be key. 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, customised lighting design and timed meal service.
Instead of the usual 300+ seat layout, Qantas has chosen to select a 238 four-class cabin, made of six First Class Suites, 52 Business Class Suites, 40 Premium Economy Seats and 140 Economy Seats.
The aircraft will also feature a purpose-built Wellbeing Zone located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins ,featuring integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.
In Quotes
Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson said:
“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, it will 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 jetlag and maximise wellbeing”.
Some time to go yet…
Project Sunrise is a big undertaking for Qantas, as well as its suppliers, who are delivering the completed Airbus A350-1000ULR to the airline. Given that it is a subtype of the A350 family, it will need to go through certification.
The first of 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services commencing in the first half of 2027.
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I cannot possibly imagine spending 22 hours in a plane nonstop. Even in first class, and especially not in economy. You can add all the lighting and timed food and whatever yuo want but I will still be climing the walls well before that plane gets anywhere near landing. Nothing short of heavy drugs would stop that.
I flew in QF business (albeit business as it was back in 2004) from LAX to SYD and was getting edgy toward the end. I did do EWR-HKG and back in coach once, but I had serious drugs for that one and that was my limit.
I will happily connect. Twice on a 22-hour trip.