This airline is set to launch world's longest non-stop flights, passengers to witness two sunrises

Since its initial announcement in 2017, Project Sunrise has undergone rigorous planning and collaboration.

Qantas is preparing to revolutionise air travel with its ambitious Project Sunrise, which aims to launch nonstop commercial flights connecting Sydney to London and New York. With flight durations ranging between 19 to 22 hours, this initiative will set a new global benchmark, surpassing the current record for the longest commercial flight, held by Singapore Airlines’ 18-hour route between Singapore and New York.

The project’s name, Project Sunrise, reflects the unique journey passengers will experience—witnessing two sunrises during a single trip. It is also emblematic of Qantas’s goal to “overcome the tyranny of distance” between Australia and other major global cities. These flights, expected to begin in 2026, will reduce current travel times by up to four hours.

To facilitate these ultra-long-haul journeys, Qantashas partnered with Airbus to utilise specially designed A350 aircraft. These planes will feature modifications prioritising passenger comfort and safety over extended durations. The airline has undertaken extensive research to ensure that challenges associated with long-haul flights are mitigated effectively.

The Qantas website highlights the project’s ambitious scope, stating, “Our fleet of specially designed Airbus A350s [will] overcome the tyranny of distance, with the ability to travel between Australia and almost any city in the world.”

Speaking at an event at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to celebrate the initiative, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson highlighted Australians’ appetite for direct travel. "These long flights are a great way for Australians to break out and see the world on the A350," she said, underlining the appeal of seamless connectivity.

Since its initial announcement in 2017, Project Sunrise has undergone rigorous planning and collaboration with industry leaders such as Airbus and Boeing. Despite global challenges affecting aviation in recent years, Qantas has remained steadfast in pursuing this historic milestone.

By shaving hours off current travel times and offering direct access to key global cities, Qantas is setting the stage for a transformative shift in how people traverse the globe. Project Sunrise underscores not only the airline’s innovative spirit but also its commitment to addressing modern travellers’ needs.