Qantas releases images of ultra long range Airbus that will fly non-stop from Sydney to London and New York | Qantas

Qantas has released “first images” of its specially configured aircraft that will fly Australians non-stop from Sydney to London and New York from 2027.

The A350-1000ULR, along with its fuselage sections, wings and landing gear, is on the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse, France, the airline said on Friday.

Qantas said the aircraft will soon be transferred to a new hangar where its engines and instruments will be installed for test flights in 2026.

_{Sign up: AÜ Breaking News email}

The carrier has ordered a dozen planes for its “sunrise project”, a plan to connect Australia’s east coast to London and New York with non-stop flights.

The 22-hour flights will reduce total travel time by up to four hours compared to existing one-stop services.

The airline released the footage on Friday to coincide with its annual general meeting in Brisbane. cabin images has been released before.

“This is an aircraft that will transform what is possible when it comes to international point-to-point air travel,” Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said in an advance copy of her speech to shareholders.

“Our teams are incredibly excited for the arrival of the first aircraft late next year, a milestone for international aviation.”

Since 2018, Qantas has been flying direct to London from Perth on Australia’s west coast using Boeing Dreamliners.

Qantas said on Friday it expected domestic revenue to grow by about 3% in the first half, which was at the lower end of the guidance range it provided in August.

Demand for leisure travel remains strong, but businesses outside the resource sector are flying less than expected, the company said.

Growth in the Qantas loyalty program remains strong and on track, with international revenue forecast remaining unchanged at 2-3%.

Qantas said on Friday it will introduce a new cabin product that will give passengers extra legroom, priority boarding and priority access to overhead luggage space on domestic and short-haul flights.

Qantas Economy Plus will be available to purchase from February, giving free access to senior frequent flyers.