Qantas will launch nonstop New York-Sydney flights in 2028, using specially configured Airbus A350-1000 ULR aircraft for the journey.
Qantas is set to launch its first nonstop flights between New York and Sydney in 2028, with the Australian carrier preparing another ultra-long-haul route using specially configured Airbus aircraft.
The route will take about 18 hours, placing it among the world’s longest nonstop commercial flights.
Currently, the longest flight designation is held by Singapore Airlines’ nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Singapore, which can exceed 19 hours.
However, Qantas is expected to claim the title next fall when it launches nonstop flights between London Heathrow and Sydney, with journey times of about 20 hours. Flight durations vary depending on the direction of travel and time of year.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson told CNBC that the New York-Sydney service follows strong demand for the airline’s existing ultra-long-haul route between Perth and London, which takes more than 17 hours and is operated with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
“What we have been able to learn from that is that there is absolutely a customer who wants this and is prepared to pay a premium for it,” Hudson said in an interview in New York, adding that travellers are seeking to avoid connections at other airports.
The Qantas Airbus A350-1000 ULR, with ULR standing for ultra-long range, will feature first class, business class, premium economy and standard economy cabins. The aircraft will also have an extra fuel tank to support the long-distance flights.
Singapore Airlines, by comparison, operates its New York-Singapore service with only business class and premium economy seats.
As part of its ultra-long-haul programme, known as Project Sunrise, Qantas spent years working with sleep scientists to study jet lag.
Hudson said the airline has explored ways to minimise the effects of long-distance travel, including the use of different lighting schemes designed to help passengers adjust to the time zone at their destination.