Airbus is entering the final stages of production of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) plane for Qantas to fly non-stop from Sydney and Melbourne to New York and London.
The first of the longest routes in commercial aviation is currently targeted for launch in the first half of 2027.
“This is something everyone at Qantas has been waiting for for a long time,” Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said in a recorded message. Qantas revealed its plans for the aircraft in December 2019.
Qantas unveiled its first A350-1000ULR on Thursday outside the Airbus manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France. The plane’s fuselage, wings, tail section, and landing gear were assembled. It will now be moved to a new hangar for engine and flight test equipment installation ahead of next year’s test flight program.
Qantas has tasked Airbus with building the A350-1000ULR specifically for the purpose of connecting major cities on Australia’s east coast with New York and London under what it calls Project Sunrise. Qantas says the plane will be able to fly for up to 22 hours, with additional range thanks to a 5,300-gallon rear center fuel tank and enhanced aircraft systems.
The distance between Sydney and London is over 11,000 miles. Direct flights save up to four hours in travel time between Australia and New York and London.
Qantas has ordered 12 A350-1000ULRs. The aircraft will be equipped with just 238 seats: 12 first class, 46 business class, 40 premium economy, and 140 economy. In comparison, Qatar Airways’ A350-1000 has 327 seats.
To enhance comfort on long-haul flights, the plane features a wellness zone between the premium economy and economy cabins, available to all passengers. Stretching handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, hydration stations and refreshments are available in this area.
