The Qantas aircraft designed to redefine long-haul travel has officially entered the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse, marking a key milestone in the airline’s ambitious Project Sunrise — nonstop flights linking Australia’s east coast directly with London and New York for the first time in history.
Airbus and Qantas have unveiled the first images of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) model following major production milestones at the French manufacturing facility. All primary airframe components — the forward, centre, and rear fuselage sections — have now been joined, with wings, tail, and landing gear also attached.
The aircraft will soon move to a dedicated hangar to have its engines and flight-test instruments installed, ahead of an extensive test flight programme in 2026.
The world’s longest commercial flights
The specially configured A350-1000ULRs will operate up to 22 hours non-stop, connecting Sydney to London and New York without refuelling — the world’s longest commercial routes.
Enabled by a 20,000-litre auxiliary fuel tank and advanced onboard systems, the aircraft will save passengers up to four hours compared with today’s one-stop itineraries.
Project Sunrise takes its name from Qantas’ historic “Double Sunrise” flights during World War II, which remained airborne long enough to witness two dawns.
Designed for wellbeing and space
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said the milestone brings Project Sunrise “one step closer to reality.”
“Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers,” Hudson said. “Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance — it will transform the way our customers travel the world.”
The A350’s cabin has been developed from scratch, in collaboration with industrial designer David Caon and scientists from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre, focusing on reducing jetlag and enhancing passenger wellbeing.
With just 238 seats — far fewer than the 300-plus typically found on similar aircraft — the cabin prioritises personal space and comfort. Highlights include a dedicated Wellbeing Zone between Premium Economy and Economy, featuring guided stretch programs, hydration stations, and healthy refreshments.
Delivery timeline
The first of 12 A350-1000ULRs is due for delivery in late 2026, with commercial flights to launch in early 2027.
When operational, Qantas’ Project Sunrise will not only connect continents in a single leap — it will redefine what it means to fly long-haul.
