Qantas confirms 22-hour non-stop Sydney–London flights to launch under Project Sunrise

Qantas has moved a step closer to its ambition of operating the world’s longest commercial service, telling international media on Sunday, 21 June, that it will open reservations next month for non-stop Sydney–London flights scheduled to start in mid-2027. Speaking at a briefing in New York, Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said final routing trials conducted last week proved the Airbus A350-1000ULR can operate the 17,000-kilometre sector with reserves to spare, even under moderate headwinds. He added that regulatory engagement with CASA and the UK Civil Aviation Authority is “well advanced”.



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The 22-hour service will slash door-to-door journey times for Australian corporates with European headquarters, eliminating the need for an Asian or Middle-Eastern transfer. Qantas also confirmed a cabin layout featuring six enclosed First-class suites, 52 Business suites, a dedicated wellbeing zone and in-seat air-quality sensors that adapt pressurisation levels during the ultra-long flight. Travel-management companies expect strong demand from C-suite travellers willing to pay a fare premium for reduced fatigue and security risks associated with transit stops. However, mobility managers should note that employee duty-of-care policies may need updating to reflect crew rest protocols and medical-clearance requirements for passengers with underlying health conditions.