Qantas: The world's longest flight with anti-jet lag luxury

Qantas Airways is set to revolutionize long-haul travel with the introduction of «Project Sunrise,» aiming to launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flights connecting Sydney directly to London and New York.

Qantas' Project Sunrise redefines luxury with first-class suites featuring fully flat beds, private doors, and reclining armchairs. Business class offers spacious lie-flat seats, while premium economy and economy boast enhanced comfort. A dedicated wellbeing zone and anti-jet lag lighting ensure a refreshed arrival. Photo: Qantas

Scheduled to commence in mid-2026, these ultra-long-haul journeys will span approximately 22 hours, surpassing current flight durations and offering passengers a unique experience, including witnessing two sunrises in a single trip.

Qantas' Project Sunrise will introduce the world's longest non-stop flights, connecting Sydney to London and New York in 22 hours. Featuring anti-jet lag lighting, a dedicated wellbeing zone, and luxurious cabins, the Airbus A350-1000 promises a new era of ultra-long-haul travel.

Innovative aircraft and passenger comfort

To facilitate these extensive routes, Qantas has commissioned specially designed Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. These planes will feature several innovations aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and reducing the effects of jet lag:

• Wellbeing Zone A dedicated area allowing passengers to move, stretch, and access healthy snacks and drinks, promoting circulation and wellbeing during the lengthy flight.

• Advanced Lighting System Inspired by the Australian landscape, the cabin lighting is designed to mimic natural sunlight patterns, aiding passengers in adjusting to new time zones and minimizing jet lag.

• Spacious Cabins The aircraft will offer various seating options, including:

  First-Class Suites Six enclosed suites featuring an 80-inch flatbed and a separate reclining armchair.

  
  

  Business Class: 52 suites with privacy features and fully reclining beds.

  Premium Economy: 40 seats with adjustable headrests.

  Economy: 140 seats with enhanced legroom.

  
  

Strategic impact and outlook

Project Sunrise represents a significant milestone in aviation, aiming to overcome the «tyranny of distance» that has historically separated Australia from major global hubs. By offering direct flights from Sydney to cities like London and New York, Qantas seeks to provide unparalleled convenience and efficiency for travelers, eliminating the need for stopovers and reducing overall travel time.

As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds around how these innovations will reshape the future of air travel, setting new standards for passenger experience on ultra-long-haul flights.

Qantas: Key facts (2024)

• Home Base: Sydney, Australia (Headquarters at Mascot, New South Wales)

• Founded: 16 November 1920 in Winton, Queensland

• Fleet Size: Over 120 aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A380s, A330s, and the upcoming A350s for Project Sunrise

• Employees: Around 20,000 staff as of 2024

• Financial Status (2024): Qantas has reported strong financial recovery post-pandemic, with multi-billion-dollar revenue, but faces scrutiny over ticket pricing and competition concerns.

  
  

Qantas remains Australia's largest airline and one of the world’s oldest continuously operating carriers.