Qantas to Launch 18-Hour Sydney-New York Nonstop Flights in 2028

Key points

• Qantas announced its second Project Sunrise route: nonstop Sydney to New York, launching mid-2028.
• The 18-hour flight replaces a 21-hour stopover route via Los Angeles, saving at least three hours.
• Tickets go on sale in August 2027; the Sydney-London route launches in October 2027.
• Flights use Airbus A350-1000ULR jets with extra fuel tanks, capable of 22-hour nonstop flights.
• Cabin features include a 'wellbeing zone' for stretching and snacks, plus 238 total seats.

Background

Qantas’s Project Sunrise initiative, originally planned for 2022, faced delays due to the pandemic and Airbus manufacturing issues. The airline previously launched a Perth-London route, which helped validate demand for ultra-long-haul travel. The Sydney-London route is scheduled for October 2027, preceding the New York launch.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian and The New York Times emphasize the route’s significance as a milestone in Qantas’s Project Sunrise, highlighting the 18-hour duration and the use of specialized aircraft. CNBC focuses on the commercial strategy, noting that Qantas expects these flights to boost earnings by $400m over five years and that demand for nonstop travel is growing. The Financial Times headline suggests that high fuel prices are a factor, though the article is behind a paywall. All sources agree on the 2028 launch date and the use of Airbus A350-1000ULR jets.

Why it matters

The launch of nonstop Sydney-New York flights marks a shift in global air travel, offering premium travelers a faster, more convenient option. It also demonstrates the viability of ultra-long-haul routes, potentially influencing other airlines to invest in similar aircraft and routes. The economic impact on Qantas, with projected profit margin increases from 4% to 10%, underscores the financial stakes of these long-haul investments.

What to watch

Qantas will begin selling tickets for the Sydney-New York route in August 2027. The airline is training 360 pilots and 1,200 cabin crew for the new aircraft. The first Airbus A350-1000ULR is expected to arrive in Australia in April 2027. Qantas may also announce additional ultra-long-haul routes from Perth in the future.