PROJECT Sunrise, which is set to operate the world’s longest direct flight, has been pushed back once again.
The Qantas project would see a non-stop, 22-hour flight between London and Sydney, which would make it the longest of its kind in the world.
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Despite plans to launch in early 2027, this has since been delayed.
The ongoing Iran War has resulted in supply chain challenges and disruption to Airbus‘ production of its modified A350 aircraft by four months.
It’s now expected to arrive in April 2027, rather than its original timeline of late 2026.
Talking to Simple Flying, Qantas said despite the delayed first delivery, the next four Project Sunrise aircraft are expected to arrive in relatively quick succession.
According to the airline, the overall rollout schedule should return to its schedule by November 2027.
Qantas added that test flights were a matter of “weeks away” and that information on the first route and timing of the “inaugural commercial services” will be revealed in June.
The Qantas flight service previously announced delays in March 2025, and before that faced delays due to Covid.
When the flights begin, the airline will make history as the first to fly non-stop between London and Sydney, as well an between Australia and New York.
With flight time of up to 22 hours, the routes will make it the longest non-stop ones in the world.
This beats the current 18.5 hour flight from Singapore to New York.
With almost a whole day of flying, the A350 aircraft has been kitted out so that passengers can be comfortable for a long period of time.
Inside, passengers can expect First Class suites, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy seats.
A Wellbeing Zone will be onboard too where passengers can get up and move about for their circulation – here there will also be healthy snacks and drinks.
This space is open to all passengers – and there’s access for all when it comes to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
In First Class, there will be six cabins each with a two-metre-long bed that lies flat – there’s also a separate reclining armchair.
There will be 52 Business suites with sliding doors for privacy.
The 40 Premium Economy seats will have 20.3cm “winged privacy headrest” and a calf rest, to keep comfy on the 22-hour flight.
Economy passengers will have 83.8cm of legroom each at the 140 seats.
The plane is kitted out with 12 lighting settings including sunrise and sunset so that passengers can stay in sync with time zones and reduce jet lag.