Qantas Prepares for World’s Longest Non-Stop Flights as New Ultra-Long Haul Planes Undergo Testing
by Bill Giannopoulos · Greek City TimesQantas is on the verge of launching the world’s longest non-stop commercial flights, with its new Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft set to undergo critical test flights in the coming days.
The Australian airline plans to operate direct flights between Sydney and London (around 20 hours) and Sydney and New York, using the specially designed ultra-long-range jets.
Test Flights Imminent
The first A350-1000ULR is scheduled to conduct a major test flight from Toulouse, France, to Melbourne as early as July 24, 2026. Airbus is preparing multiple test flights ahead of delivering the first aircraft to Qantas in April 2027.
Qantas has ordered a total of 12 of these aircraft, each costing approximately $330 million.
Cutting-Edge Features for Passenger Comfort
To make the ultra-long flights more bearable, Qantas has introduced several innovative features, including:
- A dedicated wellness zone with exercise handles and space for movement.
- Premium self-serve healthy refreshments designed for high-altitude hydration.
- Customised lighting inspired by the Australian Outback.
- Timed meal services aligned with circadian rhythms, developed in partnership with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre.
Australian designer David Caon, who led the interior design, described the project as a complex balance between aesthetics, safety, comfort, and maintainability.
Strategic Importance
The new non-stop routes are expected to give Qantas a significant competitive advantage in the international market. Analysts predict the airline could double profits from its international operations within the first year of the new services.
The current record for the longest commercial passenger flight is held by Singapore Airlines (New York to Singapore, 18 hours 50 minutes).
Qantas’ first Sydney–London flight under Project Sunrise is scheduled for October 2027.
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