Qantas is launching the world’s very first direct flight from Sydney to London.
Nearly eight years after its initial announcement, Qantas’ “Project Sunrise” is now slated to launch by late 2027. The 18 to 22-hour non-stop service from Sydney to London is set to break records, officially claiming the title of the world’s longest non-stop commercial flight.
The highly-anticipated launch was originally planned for 2025. Following pandemic-related setbacks, and due to ongoing supply chain disruptions, Qantas has been forced to push the debut to 2027.
Currently, Singapore Airlines’ 18.5-hour, 15,300-kilometer route from Singapore to New York holds the world record for the longest flight. Qantas itself trails just behind with the second-longest flight in the world from Perth to London (17.5 hours), third-longest from Perth to Paris (17 hours), and fourth-longest from Melbourne to Dallas (16 hours).
However, Qantas is set to shatter these records with Project Sunrise. Spanning 17,015 kilometers, the service will cut up to four hours of travel compared to the current one-stop flights today. “Project Sunrise” received its name for the journey’s unique feature—allowing passengers to witness two sunrises while onboard.
Alongside the launch of the Sydney to London route, Qantas will also be starting an 18-hour Sydney to New York route, which will become the new third-longest flight in the world after the Sydney to London route officially claims the number one spot. However, Qantas has yet to confirm which of the two routes will be the first one in the skies.
To maximize comfort on these ultra-long-haul journeys, the Qantas’ 12 custom “Airbus” A350-1000ULR aircraft will feature a spacious, reduced-capacity cabin, with only 238 passengers on board rather than the usual 300 to allow for more legroom. Also, Qantas will be providing first-of-their-kind “wellness zones” within the cabin, equipped with exercise programs, stretch handles, and hydration/snack stations. Passengers in first class can expect their own private quarters with sliding doors that include a bed, an armchair, a wardrobe, and a 32” HD TV screen.
The A350-1000ULP aircraft will fly for 22 hours non-stop. This has been made possible by an additional 20,000 liter rear center fuel tank, designed to fly up to 10,000 nautical miles, as well as other enhanced systems like more efficient engines and the reduced-capacity.
While the airline has just recently completed a successful maiden test flight with the craft, the official launch schedule is still being finalized. Qantas is set to reveal the very first Project Sunrise route and timing in late June, with the first flight expected to take off sometime by late 2027.
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