We’ve heard about Project Sunrise for a good few years but now the final frontier of long haul travel is becoming ever so closer with the first A350-1000ULR aircraft now on the assembly line in Toulouse, France.

These specially configured A350-1000ULRs will enable 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.

Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson said the progress shared today brings Project Sunrise one step 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,” 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”.

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.

READ: The Steps Being Taken To Put Comfort First