Airbus A350 jet completes 24-hour nonstop flight from Australia to France, paving way for Qantas’ future long-haul services
An Airbus A350-1000 has successfully completed a test flight from Melbourne to Toulouse, France, lasting over 24 hours.This flight is part of Qantas’ Project Sunrise, which aims to introduce the longest commercial passenger services, eliminating stopovers between Australia and Europe.
The A350-1000ULR is set to commence nonstop Sydney-London services in 2027.
This advanced aircraft features an extra fuel tank, enabling it to cover 23,075 km (14,338 miles) without stopping.
The flight was tracked by over 3.6 million users on Flightradar24, making it the second-most-tracked flight on the platform.
In 2005, the Boeing 777-200LR completed a similar long-haul journey of 21,601.7 km (13,422 miles) from Hong Kong to London.
Qantas has placed an order for 12 modified A350-1000ULR models, linking Australia’s east coast with London and New York in approximately 20 hours.
The aircraft, equipped with an additional 20,000 litres of fuel and a capacity of 238 passengers, is due for delivery in April 2027.
Daily nonstop flights from Sydney to London are expected to begin in October 2027.
The Project Sunrise @Airbus A350-1000ULR has touched down in Toulouse, France after completing a 24 hour 24 minute non-stop flight from Melbourne, Australia.
The aircraft flew northeast over the Pacific, over the US and Canada, then across the Atlantic and south over the UK to… pic.twitter.com/mnnXPvfosV
— Qantas (@Qantas) July 28, 2026
Long-haul advancements
Airbus continues to innovate in long-haul travel, aiming to make international flights more efficient.
This flight marks a significant achievement in aviation technology and passenger convenience.
The success of this test may redefine travel options between Australia and Europe, supporting increased demand for nonstop services.
