Qantas has announced further delays to its ambitious 'Project Sunrise' initiative, which aims to launch the world's longest non-stop commercial flights connecting Sydney with London and New York. The airline now expects the first of its specially configured Airbus A350 aircraft to be delivered in April 2027, pushing back the planned service start from the first half of 2027.
Reasons for the Delay
These delays are primarily attributed to ongoing supply chain issues affecting Airbus, as well as previous complications with the aircraft's additional fuel tank, which is essential for the ultra-long-haul flights. The London-Sydney route is anticipated to take approximately 19 hours, offering a four-hour reduction compared to current one-stop flights via Singapore.
Future Plans
Qantas plans to reveal a new start date and confirm whether London or New York will be the inaugural route at an event at Airbus's headquarters in Toulouse in June. The airline remains committed to the project, which promises to revolutionize air travel between Australia and key global destinations.
