Qantas launches record-breaking direct flights in 2026

Currently, the longest direct commercial flight in the world is an 18-hour route connecting Singapore to New York. Qantas intends to break this record by offering passengers the opportunity to travel from Australia to the USA without layovers. Additionally, airline representatives also mention a 19-hour flight from Sydney to London.

The flight from Sydney to New York is expected to last up to 22 hours. The Australian airline began the "Sunrise" project concept back in 2017, collaborating with Boeing and Airbus to develop aircraft capable of covering such distances.

There was initial discussion about launching the flights in 2022, but obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, delayed the plans. Now, the flights are expected to start in 2026.

Vanessa Hudson, who became the CEO of Qantas in 2023, emphasizes the importance of the project. "This will set the tyranny of distance as a thing of the past. 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," she said, as quoted by International Business Times.

The "Sunrise" project is aptly named, as passengers will have the unique experience of witnessing two sunrises during one flight due to crossing time zones.

Currently, the airlines are working with Airbus on a new version of the aircraft intended for ultra-long-haul flights. Over 40% of the Airbus A350-1000's space will be dedicated to premium class cabins—first and business classes. The remaining part of the plane will have 140 economy class seats.

In first class, passengers will enjoy private spaces resembling mini hotel rooms, complete with reclining seats and workspaces. In economy class, the seats will also be more comfortable than those in standard aircraft, featuring touchscreens, USB-C chargers, and access to the onboard entertainment zone and snacks.