Qantas has announced a new launch date for its long-awaited nonstop flights between Sydney and London, with the historic route now scheduled to begin operations in October 2027.
The announcement was made during the presentation of the airline’s first Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft at Airbus facilities in Toulouse, France, as part of Qantas’ ambitious Project Sunrise initiative.
World’s Longest Commercial Flights
The Sydney-London route will become one of the longest nonstop commercial flights ever operated, eliminating the need for the traditional stopover that has long been part of travel between Australia and the United Kingdom.
Qantas expects to begin selling tickets in February 2027, according to Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson.
The airline has indicated that fares will be approximately 20% higher than comparable one-stop itineraries.
Specially Designed Airbus A350
The route will be operated using a specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft designed for ultra-long-haul operations.
Unlike standard versions of the aircraft that typically carry more than 300 passengers, the Project Sunrise aircraft will accommodate just 238 passengers across four cabin classes.
The layout will include First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy cabins.
An additional 20,000-litre fuel tank will allow the aircraft to fly more than 16,000 kilometres nonstop.
Designed For Passenger Wellbeing
Recognizing the challenges of flights lasting close to 20 hours, Qantas has incorporated dedicated wellness features into the aircraft design.
A specially designed wellbeing zone will allow passengers to stretch, move around and perform light exercises during the journey.
The airline hopes these features will help reduce fatigue, muscle stiffness and the effects of crossing multiple time zones.
Passengers on the route are also expected to witness two sunrises during certain flights due to the combination of flight duration and time zone changes.
Project Sunrise Changes The Kangaroo Route
Qantas named the initiative Project Sunrise in reference to the airline’s historic long-distance operations during World War II.
The project aims to transform the traditional “Kangaroo Route” between Australia and the United Kingdom, which currently requires at least one intermediate stop, most commonly in Singapore.
By flying nonstop, Qantas expects to reduce total travel time between Sydney and London by approximately four hours.
New York Next On The List
Following the launch of London services, Qantas plans to introduce another flagship nonstop route connecting Sydney and New York.
The airline believes ultra-long-haul flights will become an increasingly important part of its international strategy, offering travelers faster and more convenient journeys between Australia and major global destinations.
