Qantas A350-1000ULR nears completion at Airbus facility for Australia’s first non-stop flights to London and New York
Qantas aircraft designed to operate the world’s longest commercial flights are now on the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse, marking a major milestone in the airline’s plans to fly non-stop from Australia to London and New York.
Images released by Qantas and Airbus show the A350-1000ULR (ultra long range) aircraft after the completion of the main production stages at the Airbus production facility.
All major body components were combined, including the front, middle and rear fuselage sections; The wings, tail sections and landing gear are now installed.
This week the aircraft will be moved to a new hangar for the installation of engines and flight test equipment ahead of an extensive test flight program starting in 2026.
Qantas said the specially configured A350-1000ULRs will be capable of up to 22 hours of non-stop flight, thanks to an additional 20,000-litre rear center fuel tank and improved systems.
Direct services are expected to reduce total travel time by up to four hours compared to existing one-stop routes.
The company announced that the Project Sunrise name would be part of Qantas’ Phase II. He said it paid homage to the historic Double Sunrise flights during World War II, which stayed airborne long enough for the crew to see two sunrises.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said the assembly of the aircraft brings Project Sunrise closer to reality.
“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,” Ms Hudson said.
“These flights will shorten journeys by up to four hours and transform how people experience ultra-long-haul travel, thanks to science-backed design that minimizes jet lag and maximizes well-being.”
The cabins were designed from scratch in collaboration with a team of aerospace experts, Australian industrial designer David Caon and experts from the Charles Perkins Center at the University of Sydney.
Sleep scientists have contributed features aimed at reducing jet lag, including customized lighting and timed meal services.
The airline said passenger space was also prioritized, with the aircraft configured for 238 seats, fewer than the 300-plus seats common on other A350-1000s.
A purpose-built ‘wellness zone’ between premium and economy comprises integrated stretching arms, guided exercise programmes, a hydration station and a range of beverages.
The first of 12 aircraft is scheduled to be delivered in late 2026, and the first commercial Project Sunrise flights are expected to begin in the first half of 2027.
