Australians have long suffered the multi-flight journey to get to Europe. But that is set to change thanks to Qantas’ Project Sunrise. The Australian flag carrier has made it its mission to be the first to fly from Sydney to London directly. When it succeeds Qantas will be the only airline to fly the 22-hour non-stop flight, the world’s longest.

Credit: Qantas

The airline is now one step closer to making its dream a reality. Qantas has announced that the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft is now fitted with all key airframe components including the forward, centre and rear fuselage sections, along with the wings, tail section and landing gear now attached. This means the airline is on track to commence its extensive test flight programme in 2026, before launching to the public in 2027. 

While a 20-plus hour flight may be cabin-fever inducing, Qantas have gone to great lengths to ensure passengers on the flight are comfortable from Economy to Premium Economy (which you can read more about here), Business and First Class (and here). 

The cabins have been developed from the ground up in collaboration with aviation specialists, Australian industrial designer David Caon, and a multidisciplinary team of experts from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. This includes sleep scientists working to combat jetlag through features like unique, customised lighting design and timed meal service.

Credit: Qantas

Key to the cabin design has been giving passengers more space, with a 238-seat configuration versus the 300-plus seats layout used by other A350-1000 operators. This includes a purpose-built Wellbeing Zone located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins featuring integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.

As part of Project Sunrise, Qantas is also set to launch a direct flight from Sydney to New York. No word on which flight path will be tested and available to the public first, but we’ll keep you posted.

So what will it be: stopover or direct? 

When will Qantas launch direct flights to Europe?

Qantas will launch a 20-plus hour direct flight from Sydney to London in 2027. The national carrier will begin its extensive test flight program in 2026. When Qantas begins flying this route it will be the world’s longest non-stop flight.

Related story: You won’t believe the meals that Qantas used to serve on flights