Qantas Reveals Project Sunrise Cabins Ahead of Sydney–London Launch
The airline’s specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULRs will feature just 238 seats, a dedicated wellbeing zone, and cabin designs informed by sleep and circadian-rhythm research.
Photo: Courtesy of Qantas
Qantas has revealed new details of the onboard experience for Project Sunrise, the airline’s long-awaited initiative to launch the world’s first nonstop commercial flights between Sydney and London. Scheduled to begin in October 2027 aboard specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, the service is being designed around a simple goal: helping travelers arrive after nearly 20 hours in the air feeling noticeably better than they do today.
The airline’s new A350s will carry just 238 passengers, making them the lowest-density Airbus A350 aircraft in service globally. The reduced capacity allows for larger cabins, more personal space, and a range of features designed to mitigate the physical challenges of ultra-long-haul travel. Qantas says the cabin design draws on more than a decade of research conducted with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre, which has studied the effects of long-distance travel on sleep, jet lag, and overall wellbeing.
At the front of the aircraft, six enclosed First Class suites will feature separate armchairs and beds, full-length wardrobes, and customizable lighting designed to support travelers’ circadian rhythms. Business Class will include 52 suites with sliding privacy doors, while Premium Economy has been redesigned specifically for ultra-long-haul flying with enhanced ergonomic support and one of the most generous seat pitches in the airline’s fleet.
Economy passengers will also see meaningful upgrades. The 140-seat cabin will offer more legroom than any current Qantas aircraft, while a new Economy Plus section will provide additional space, priority boarding, and dedicated access to overhead bins. Across the aircraft, memory foam cushioning, breathable wool upholstery, and expanded storage have been incorporated to improve comfort on flights that can stretch into an entire day.
Perhaps the most distinctive addition is a dedicated Wellbeing Zone located between Premium Economy and Economy. The space will feature stretch handles, guided movement programs, hydration stations, and healthy refreshments, giving passengers a place to move around during the journey. A new in-flight entertainment platform will also allow travelers to plan meals, rest periods, and activities around the flight’s lighting and wellness schedule.
Sydney–London will be the first Project Sunrise route when service launches in 2027, with Sydney–New York confirmed as the next destination. Qantas says timing for the New York service will be announced next year.
