The direct route has been years in the making, with Qantas first announcing Project Sunrise in 2017 before a series of production delays pushed back the launch.
The flights are expected to begin in October 2027.
Here’s what you need to know.
Announcement
The Airbus A350 will operate the world’s longest commercial passenger flight, becoming the first plane to fly non-stop between Sydney and London.
The journey is expected to take up to 22 hours, cutting around four hours off current travel times between the two cities.
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The world’s longest flight currently operates between Singapore and New York, taking just under 19 hours.
Qantas already flies non-stop between Perth and London, a journey of about 17.5 hours.
How it works
The 12 aircraft have been fitted with an additional 20,000-litre fuel tank, allowing them to fly more than 16,000km.
Only 238 passengers will be onboard, compared to up to 485 on a Qantas A380, helping reduce weight and fuel use. The aircraft will also feature lighter crockery, cutlery and furniture.
Passengers will also have access to a dedicated ‘Wellbeing Zone’, where they can stretch and move around during the journey.
