A specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft operated by Qantas completed a test flight from Toulouse, France to Melbourne on Friday, traversing approximately 17,000 kilometers in just over 19 hours. The flight was piloted by four Airbus test pilots and five flight engineers who will evaluate the aircraft’s performance and systems before returning to France on Monday with two Qantas pilots joining the crew.
The ultra long-range variant was engineered specifically for Qantas’s Project Sunrise, which aims to establish nonstop commercial service between Sydney and London scheduled to commence in October 2027. The aircraft can sustain flights lasting up to 22 hours, enabling routes previously considered impractical for direct passenger service. The test flight generated significant public interest, becoming the most-watched flight globally on tracking websites, with over 67,000 observers monitoring its progress.
The A350-1000ULR incorporates an additional 20,000-liter fuel tank to extend its operational range to nearly 18,500 kilometers, according to manufacturer specifications. Qantas has ordered 12 of these aircraft configured with 238 seats, a significantly reduced capacity compared to standard A350-1000 models that accommodate over 300 passengers. The test aircraft currently sports tan livery with company branding, while the first aircraft in full Qantas colors, designated Vega, remains under assembly and is scheduled for delivery in April 2027.
The project has experienced multiple scheduling adjustments. In November 2025, Qantas projected service commencement for the first half of 2027, but Airbus subsequently announced delivery delays to April 2027, pushing the launch timeline forward. While earlier announcements identified Melbourne and Brisbane as additional hubs for international direct flights, the company’s June statement focused exclusively on Sydney, with officials noting that route decisions will ultimately depend on market demand and operational considerations.
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