Take a look at the ultra long-range jet that will fly for 22 hours in world's longest flight
Wednesday, 3 December 2025
Qantas has revealed pictures of its ultra-long-range Airbus aircraft that is set to be used in the world’s longest flight, going non-stop for 22 hours.
The jet will connect Sydney directly to London and New York by 2027, and is expected to operate as the world’s longest commercial flight.
The aircraft is being assembled in Toulouse, France, and as the video shows above, it’s a huge operation. The jet’s range will be made possible by an extra 20,000-litre rear fuel tank and state-of-the-art onboard systems.
Qantas showcased it at its annual general meeting in Brisbane, describing the next-generation aircraft as a “game-changer” for international travel.
The A350-1000ULR will be a key part of the plan to link Australia’s east coast with the world’s major cities without stopovers.
The initiative is called Project Sunrise and should save time-poor travellers as much as four hours compared to current one-stop journeys.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said given Australia’s position in the world, the airline has a long history of breaking aviation barriers.
“Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world,” she said.
Passenger wellbeing features will be in place for the ultra long-haul with tailored lighting patterns and meal timing strategies to help reduce jet lag.
Unlike standard A350-1000 aircraft that seat over 300 passengers, Qantas’s version will carry 238 allowing more personal space.
It will also feature a new “wellbeing zone” between premium economy and economy with stretch handles, guided exercise screens, a hydration station and refreshments throughout the flight.
Qantas also announced a new domestic travel class, economy plus, which will include extra legroom, priority boarding and dedicated overhead locker space.
Top-tier frequent flyers are going to get first dibs on the seats as Qantas Platinum and Platinum One members receive complimentary access to economy plus.
The extra cost for other passengers has not been revealed but the upgrade will be available for customers to buy from February.
The jet is set to have its engines and flight instruments installed before beginning testing next year.
The first of 12 A350-1000ULR aircraft is expected to be delivered in late 2026 and should be in the air by early 2027.
CORRECTION: The plane is not expected to set a record for longest flight, but will be operating the world’s longest available commercial flights.