Qantas has recently unveiled the first images of its specially designed aircraft that will operate non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York starting in 2027. The A350-1000ULR, currently being assembled in Toulouse, France, will feature a unique configuration to accommodate the long-distance flights. The airline plans to have a dozen of these planes in its fleet for the “project sunrise” initiative, which aims to connect Australia’s east coast with these major international cities.

The assembly of the A350-1000ULR is progressing, with the fuselage sections, wings, and landing gear now attached. The aircraft will soon be transferred to a new hangar where its engines and instruments will be installed for test flights in 2026. Qantas announced this news at its annual general meeting in Brisbane, along with the release of the aircraft’s first images. The airline also shared previous images of the cabin, giving passengers a glimpse of what to expect on these long-haul flights.

Vanessa Hudson, Qantas’s chief executive, expressed her excitement about the arrival of the first A350-1000ULR, describing it as a game-changer for international point-to-point air travel. The 22-hour flights will significantly reduce travel time compared to the current one-stop services, making them a popular choice for travelers. Qantas has been operating non-stop flights from Perth to London since 2018 using Boeing Dreamliners.

In addition to the announcement about the A350-1000ULR, Qantas also provided an update on its financial performance. The airline expects its domestic revenue to grow by approximately 3% in the first half of the year, which is at the lower end of its earlier guidance. While leisure travel demand remains strong, the company noted a decrease in business travel outside of the resource sector. However, Qantas maintains its forecast for international revenue growth at 2-3%, with its loyalty program also performing well and on track.

Qantas also announced the launch of a new cabin product, Qantas Economy Plus, for its domestic and short-haul flights. This product will offer passengers extra leg-room, priority boarding, and priority access to overhead baggage space. It will be available for purchase in February, with high-level frequent flyers receiving complimentary access.

Overall, Qantas is making significant strides in its efforts to connect Australia with major international cities through non-stop flights. The A350-1000ULR, with its specially designed features, will revolutionize long-haul air travel and provide a more seamless experience for passengers.