Qantas is making significant progress towards launching its ambitious non-stop flights connecting Australia to distant locations around the globe beginning in 2027. These flights will utilize a fleet of ultra-long range Airbus A350-1000 jets, designed for marathon journeys lasting 18 to 22 hours to destinations such as London and New York.
Before these long-haul flights commence, Qantas has announced that the A350 will initially operate flights from Sydney to New Zealand. Vanessa Hudson, the CEO of Qantas Group, highlighted that these trans-Tasman flights will serve to train pilots and cabin crew on the new aircraft. The first Project Sunrise A350-1000 is expected to arrive at the end of 2026.
To establish a daily service on routes like Sydney-London or Sydney-New York, Qantas will need approximately three aircraft, which should be ready in the first half of 2027.
In the interim, while only the first aircraft is available, extensive training will be conducted for pilots and cabin crew. This initial A350-1000 will be utilized for flights between Sydney and New Zealand, allowing for training while keeping the flights relatively short.
These special Qantas A350 flights are also set to carry passengers on brief three-hour journeys such as Sydney to Auckland. The aircraft will feature six spacious private first-class suites and 52 new business-class suites equipped with sliding privacy doors. Additionally, there will be 40 upgraded premium economy seats and 140 economy recliners, all designed for enhanced comfort with extra legroom and lower back support. Given the excitement among frequent flyers and aviation enthusiasts, these flights are expected to sell out quickly, providing an opportunity to experience the new first-class and business-class offerings on shorter routes.
