What's happened
Qantas has unveiled modified Airbus A350-1000ULR jets for ultra-long-haul routes, including Sydney-London and Sydney-New York, with flights up to 22 hours and 238 seats. The carrier plans to start selling in February and launch in October 2027, aiming to cut travel time and boost premium cabins.
What's behind the headline?
Critical Analysis
- This move marks a strategic pivot to monetize time. By offering nonstop routes, Qantas targets premium passengers willing to pay a premium for convenience.
- The program relies on polar routing and a heavy premium-cabin configuration, signaling a focus on profitability from high-yield travellers rather than cargo.
- The success hinges on traveler willingness to pay for nonstop travel amid competition from Gulf hubs and potential disruptions in airspace.
- Expect parallel investments in passenger health research and cabin design as part of Project Sunrise to maintain comfort on 19–22 hour flights.
- The next step will be assessing demand for Sydney-London vs Sydney-New York and adjusting capacity and pricing accordingly.
How we got here
Qantas aims to overcome the Kangaroo Route’s 24–25 hour journey by developing ultra-long-haul capabilities since 2019, in partnership with Airbus. The fleet will include an extra 20,000-litre fuel tank to extend range and maintain premium service across four cabins.
Our analysis
AP News reports detail the aircraft conversion and range capabilities; Independent Business includes expert commentary on passenger comfort and premium pricing; SBS adds coverage of the project timeline and fleet details.
Go deeper
- Will direct Sydney-London and Sydney-New York flights attract enough premium demand to justify the cost?
- What changes will passengers experience in cabins and meals on these ultra-long-haul services?
- How will geopolitical and airspace disruptions affect the Project Sunrise timetable?
More on these topics
-
Qantas Airways - Airline
Qantas Airways Limited is the flag carrier of Australia and its largest airline by fleet size, international flights and international destinations.
-
London - Capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom
London is the capital and largest city of both England and the United Kingdom, with a population of 9.1 million people in 2024. Its wider metropolitan area is the largest in Western Europe, with a population of 15.1 million. London stands on the River...
-
Singapore Airlines - Airline
Singapore Airlines is the flag carrier airline of Singapore with its hub at Singapore Changi Airport. The airline is notable for using the Singapore Girl as its central figure in corporate branding.
-
Sydney - City in Australia
Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia and Oceania. Located on Australia's east coast, the metropolis surrounds Port Jackson and extends about 70 km on its periphery towards the Blue Mountains to the west, H