World’s longest flight to launch in 2027

Qantas Airways is set to launch the world’s longest non-stop passenger flight in October 2027, introducing direct services between Sydney and London under its ‘Project Sunrise’ programme.

The route will be the airline’s first non-stop service between Australia’s east coast and the UK, reducing travel times by up to four hours compared with one-stop flights. Tickets are expected to go on sale in February 2027. 

Qantas first launched flights to London in 1947, when the journey took four days and included seven stopovers along its ’kangaroo route’. Today, the carrier operates London services with connections via Perth and Singapore. 

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The announcement coincides with the unveiling of Qantas’ first Airbus A350-1000ULR in Toulouse. Built for ultra-long-haul operations, the aircraft can fly more than 16,000km for up to 22 hours non-stop and can carry 238 passengers across four cabins.

Designed in collaboration with medical researchers and design partners, the A350-1000ULR incorporates specialised seating, circadian rhythm lighting, enhanced dining and wellbeing features to improve passenger comfort. A key feature is the dedicated Wellbeing Zone with space for stretching, movement and refreshments.

The cabin will feature 140 Economy seats, 40 Premium Economy seats, 52 Business suites and six First suites with full-length beds and separate armchairs. Additional onboard features include high-speed inflight WiFi and pre-selected meal options.