In an era where air travel is constantly pushing the boundaries of distance and time, Qantas is set to further extend its reach across the globe. Under its ambitious Project Sunrise initiative, the Australian airline plans to introduce nonstop flights from Sydney to New York by mid-2028. This development marks a significant expansion of Qantas’s ultra-long-haul capabilities, following the anticipated launch of its Sydney-London nonstop service in 2027.
The Sydney to New York route will be the first commercially scheduled nonstop service between Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and New York’s JFK Airport. Currently, Qantas operates this route with a layover in Los Angeles, resulting in a total travel time of approximately 21 hours. The new direct service is expected to cut the journey time to around 18 hours, offering a more efficient travel option for passengers.
Tickets for the nonstop Sydney-New York flights are slated to go on sale in August 2027, though Qantas has yet to release information regarding fares or the exact launch date. The airline will utilize the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft for these flights, a plane specifically designed for extended flights of up to 22 hours. Qantas has placed an order for 12 of these aircraft, which will be equipped with 238 seats across various classes, including first-class suites, business suites, premium economy, and economy cabins.
In addition to seating, the A350-1000ULR will feature a unique “wellbeing zone” situated between the economy and premium economy sections. This area aims to enhance passenger comfort during the long journey, offering a space for stretching, accessing guided exercises, and enjoying snacks and drinks.
Qantas’s Project Sunrise reflects its strategic objective to expand its ultra-long-haul network, enabling direct flights between Australia and major global destinations without the need for stopovers. The airline anticipates the delivery of its first A350-1000ULR in 2027, setting the stage for a new era of long-distance air travel.