Qantas Airways is preparing to open ticket sales next August for its highly anticipated nonstop service between New York and Sydney, with flights scheduled to commence in 2028. This ambitious venture marks another milestone in the Australian carrier's strategy to expand its ultra-long-haul network, leveraging specialized Airbus aircraft for the marathon journey.
This new route, estimated to take approximately 18 hours, will rank among the world's longest flights, closely trailing the current record holder—Singapore Airlines' nonstop service from New York's JFK to Singapore, which can exceed 19 hours.
However, Qantas is poised to claim the title of the world's longest commercial flight when it inaugurates its London Heathrow to Sydney nonstop service next October, a journey projected to last around 20 hours. Flight durations are subject to variations based on direction and seasonal factors.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson highlighted the robust demand observed for existing ultra-long-haul routes, such as the 17-hour Perth, Australia, to London flight operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. "What we have been able to learn from that is that there is absolutely a customer who wants this and is prepared to pay a premium for it," Hudson stated in an interview, emphasizing travelers' preference to bypass connecting airports.
The airline plans to deploy new Airbus A350-1000 ULR (ultra-long range) jets for these extended flights. These specially configured aircraft will feature first class, business class, premium economy, and standard economy cabins, and will be equipped with an additional fuel tank to support the immense journey.
In contrast, Singapore Airlines' New York to Singapore route exclusively offers business class and premium economy seating.
As part of its comprehensive ultra-long-haul initiative, dubbed "Project Sunrise," Qantas has collaborated with sleep scientists to mitigate the effects of jet lag. Hudson explained that the airline is exploring innovative solutions, including adaptive lighting schemes, to help passengers acclimate more effectively to their destination's time zone.
(Image: A Qantas jetliner landing at Sydney Airport in Australia. Credit: David Gray | Getty Images News | Getty Images, Nov. 15, 2019.)
