Qantas’ first Airbus A350-1000ULR for Project Sunrise has completed its maiden test flight, marking a major milestone ahead of the launch of the airline’s non-stop services from Australia’s east coast to London and New York.
Operated by two Airbus test pilots, three flight test engineers and one ground test engineer, the ultra-long-range aircraft took off from Toulouse on June 2, and flew for three hours and 43 minutes over France and the country’s Atlantic coastline.
The flight focused on validating the aircraft’s core systems, including its specialised fuel system. This features an additional 20,000-litre rear centre fuel tank, enabling future commercial flights of up to 22 hours non-stop.
The successful first flight launches a two-month testing programme, during which the aircraft will complete around 80 flight hours and undergo extensive ground checks. The campaign will also certify new and redesigned components that support ultra-long-haul operations.
Among the systems being tested is a new galley air-cooling solution equipped with lighter, more efficient refrigeration units. The technology is expected to be introduced across future Airbus A350 aircraft.
Meanwhile, a second Project Sunrise aircraft is advancing through Airbus’ final assembly line. The aircraft is currently being fitted with its four-class cabin interior and painted in Qantas livery ahead of delivery in April next year.
Qantas is expected to announce the first Project Sunrise route and the timing of its inaugural commercial services later this month.
