Qantas Airways plans to begin selling tickets next August for its first nonstop service between New York and Sydney. The flights themselves are scheduled to start in 2028, as the airline finalizes preparations for the ultra-long-haul route.
The journey is expected to take about 18 hours, putting it among the longest flights in the world. For now, that distinction belongs to Singapore Airlines’ nonstop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to Singapore, which can last more than 19 hours.
Qantas, however, is expected to take that title next fall when it launches nonstop flights between London Heathrow and Sydney with a journey time of about 20 hours. Flight durations will vary depending on direction and season.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson told CNBC that the airline’s push into new ultra-long-haul routes follows strong demand for another long-distance service, its Perth, Australia, to London flight. That route takes more than 17 hours and is operated with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
According to Hudson, the airline has found that there is a clear group of customers willing to pay a premium to avoid connecting through other airports. She said many travelers prefer direct long-haul flights over stopovers.
Qantas will use Airbus A350-1000 ULR aircraft for the new route. ULR stands for ultra-long range, and the jets are fitted with an extra fuel tank for the marathon trip. The aircraft will feature first class, business class, premium economy and standard economy cabins.
By comparison, Singapore Airlines operates its New York-Singapore service with only business class and premium economy seating.
As part of its ultra-long-haul program, known as Project Sunrise, Qantas has spent years working with sleep scientists to study jet lag. Hudson said the carrier has explored ways to reduce the effects of very long travel, including different lighting setups designed to help passengers adjust to the destination time zone.
