Qantas’ Project Sunrise Airbus A350-1000ULR has successfully completed its maiden test flight, marking a significant milestone ahead of the launch of commercial flights that will connect Australia’s east coast to London and New York non-stop for the first time.
The ultra long range aircraft took off from Toulouse yesterday afternoon local time, operated by two Airbus Flight Test Pilots, three Flight Test Engineers and one Ground Test Engineer. The aircraft flew for three hours and 43 minutes over France and the French Atlantic Coast.
Testing the Ultra Long Range Capabilities
The inaugural flight focused on testing the aircraft’s primary systems, with particular attention to the specialised fuel system that makes these marathon flights possible. The A350-1000ULR features an additional 20,000 litre rear centre fuel tank, enabling commercial flights of up to 22 hours non-stop - crucial for the planned Sydney-London and Melbourne-New York routes.
What’s Next for Project Sunrise
This successful first flight marks the beginning of an intensive two-month testing campaign. The aircraft will complete approximately 80 hours of flight testing, putting all systems through their paces before delivery to Qantas.
Project Sunrise represents a game-changer for Australian travellers, eliminating the need for stopovers on some of the world’s longest routes. Once operational, these flights will:
- Connect Sydney directly to London in approximately 20 hours
- Link Melbourne to New York non-stop in around 22 hours
- Feature specially designed cabins optimised for ultra long-haul comfort
- Include wellness zones and enhanced cabin features to combat jet lag
The Aircraft Behind the Mission
The A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) is a specially modified version of the Airbus A350-1000, designed specifically for Qantas’ Project Sunrise requirements. Key features include:
- Extended fuel capacity with additional fuel tanks
- Modified fuel system for optimal weight distribution during ultra-long flights
- Enhanced cabin air quality systems for passenger comfort
- Latest generation engines for improved fuel efficiency
Timeline for Commercial Service
While Qantas hasn’t confirmed exact launch dates, the successful completion of test flights brings Project Sunrise closer to reality. Following the testing phase, the aircraft will undergo certification before entering commercial service, with routes expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026.
For Australian travellers, Project Sunrise promises to revolutionise long-haul travel, saving hours of transit time and eliminating the inconvenience of stopovers. As testing continues over the coming months, aviation enthusiasts and frequent flyers alike will be watching closely as this ambitious project takes shape.
Stay tuned to Beat That Flight for updates on Project Sunrise and be among the first to know when these groundbreaking routes go on sale.