Qantas’ new “Project Sunrise” ultra long range airplane is now on the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse, France, marking a significant step towards the airline offering the world’s first non-stop flights from Australia’s east coast to London and New York.

The carrier and Airbus today released images of the A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range) aircraft, following the completion of major production milestones at the Airbus manufacturing facility.

All key airframe components including the forward, center and rear fuselage sections have come together, along with the wings, tail section and landing gear now attached. This week the aircraft will be transferred to a new hangar where it will have engines and flight test instruments installed, in preparation for an extensive test flight program starting in 2026.

These specially configured A350-1000ULRs will fly for up to 22 hours non-stop, a feat made possible by an additional 20,000-liter rear center fuel tank and enhanced systems.

The Project Sunrise name is a nod to the airline’s historic “Double Sunrise” endurance flights during the Second World War, which remained airborne long enough to see two sunrises.

“Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers,” explained Vanessa Hudson, CEO, Qantas Group. “Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers see the world. These flights will take up to four hours off the journey and transform how people experience ultra long-haul travel, through science backed design to minimize jetlag and maximize wellbeing.”

The plane’s cabins have been designed from the ground up in collaboration with aviation specialists, Australian industrial designer David Caon, and a multidisciplinary team of experts from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre. The team includes sleep scientists working to combat jetlag through features like unique, customized lighting design and timed meal service.

Giving passengers more space is a key element of the cabin design. The A350-1000ULR will have a 238-seat configuration instead of the 300-plus seat layout used by other A350-1000 operators. Special features include a purpose-built Wellbeing Zone located between the Premium Economy and Economy cabins that will feature integrated stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programs, a hydration station, and a range of refreshments.

The first of 12 new aircraft is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, with the first commercial Project Sunrise services commencing in the first half of 2027.