Qantas Unveils Project Sunrise: Direct London-Sydney Flights Launching in 2027

Qantas is set to launch the first-ever direct flights between London Heathrow and Sydney in October 2027, under its "Project Sunrise" initiative. These ultra-long-haul journeys will utilize specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, designed to cover the approximately 10,500-mile distance without refueling.

The new service is expected to reduce travel time significantly. The fastest current journeys, which include a stopover, take approximately 21 hours and 35 minutes. The direct flights aim to complete the journey in as little as 18 hours and 7 minutes, potentially shaving off up to four hours from current travel times. This marks a milestone in aviation, aiming to eliminate the need for lengthy connections on flights to Australia and the South Pacific.

Tickets for the new service are scheduled to go on sale in February. Qantas estimates that fares will be approximately 20 percent higher than current non-direct services. Economy class return fares for non-direct flights currently start around £1,256, suggesting direct flight prices could begin from approximately £1,500. Prices will include checked baggage.

Aircraft Configuration and Amenities

The A350-1000ULR aircraft will accommodate 238 passengers. The initial configuration includes 98 economy-class seats, 42 "economy plus" seats, 40 in premium economy, 52 in business class, and six in first class. Economy seats will have pitches of 32 to 33 inches, while "economy plus" seats will offer 33 inches. Premium economy seats will feature 40-inch pitches and adjustable headrests.

First-class suites will include two-meter beds, 22-inch wide armchairs, wardrobes, and large entertainment monitors. The interior design will feature muted grey tones. In a unique addition for commercial flights, a "Wellness Zone" will be situated between the premium economy and economy cabins. This area, developed with input from Sydney University experts, will provide space for stretching and yoga, along with a hydration station and premium refreshments.

Project Sunrise Origins and Future Routes

The name "Project Sunrise" pays homage to Qantas's historic propeller plane flights between Perth and Sri Lanka during World War II, which lasted over 30 hours and allowed passengers to witness multiple sunrises. The new aircraft's internal lighting will feature subtle, nine-minute changes to simulate a sunrise effect.

These extended-range capabilities are achieved by fitting the planes with extra fuel tanks capable of carrying an additional 20,000 liters of fuel. This allows the aircraft to travel up to 11,500 miles, making it the longest continuous commercial flight available.

Currently, the longest commercial flight is Singapore Airlines' service between Singapore and New York JFK, covering 9,537 miles. Qantas already operates a direct flight from London to Perth, which began in 2018 and covers 9,009 miles.

Beyond the London-Sydney route, Qantas plans to introduce direct flights between Sydney and New York, likely in early 2028, with potential services to South America and South Africa also being considered. Other airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, and Air India, have also placed orders for similar long-range aircraft, with deliveries not expected before 2030. Qantas has initially ordered a dozen of these planes.