Qantas has reached a major milestone in its ambitious Project Sunrise programme. The first Airbus A350-1000ULR, designed for non-stop flights, is now on the assembly line in Toulouse. This marks a key step towards the launch of historic direct services from Australia to London and New York.
Qantas and Airbus have unveiled the first images of the aircraft after completing several major production stages. The forward, centre, and rear fuselage sections have now been joined. Wings, tail, and landing gear are also in place, showing the aircraft taking its final shape.
At the end of last week, the aircraft was moved to another hangar. There, engineers have installed the engines and flight test instruments before extensive testing begins in 2026. These trials will prepare the aircraft for the longest commercial routes in the world.
The custom-built A350-1000ULRs will connect Australia’s east coast directly to London and New York. The aircraft can fly for up to 22 hours without stopping. A new 20,000-litre rear fuel tank and upgraded systems will make these ultra-long flights possible. Every detail of the aircraft focuses on passenger comfort and wellbeing.
The new routes will save travellers up to four hours compared with current one-stop services. The experience aims to make ultra-long-haul travel smoother, more restful, and more efficient.
Project Sunrise takes its name from Qantas’ legendary ‘Double Sunrise’ flights of the Second World War, which stayed airborne long enough to see two dawns. The first of 12 new A350 aircraft will be delivered in late 2026. Commercial flights will begin in early 2027, marking a new chapter in aviation history for Qantas and global travellers alike.
