Qantas reimagines Long-Haul Travel as Project Sunrise onboard experience takes shape

Qantas has today revealed the next evolution in the cabin design for Project Sunrise, which will launch with the world’s first non-stop services between Sydney and London from October 2027.

Aircraft & Capacity
- Launching October 2027 with Sydney–London non-stop flights.
- Airbus A350-1000ULR configured with 238 seats — the lowest density of any A350 worldwide, prioritizing space and comfort.
- Research-driven design in partnership with the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre, Caon Design Office, and technology partners.

Cabin by Cabin
- First Class (6 suites, 1-1-1): 80-inch flat bed + recliner, wardrobe, large dining/work space, memory foam mattress, circadian lighting, discreet digital crew communication.
- Business (52 suites, 1-2-1): Sliding doors, adjustable dividers, 80-inch flat bed, flexible dining aligned with circadian rhythms, luminescent lighting for sleep optimization.
- Premium Economy (40 seats, 2-4-2): Ergonomic leg/calf cradle, privacy headrest, generous pitch, bespoke memory foam system.
- Economy (140 seats, 3-3-3): More generous pitch than current Qantas aircraft, breathable wool upholstery, memory foam cushioning.
- Economy Plus (42 seats): 34-inch pitch, priority boarding, overhead space access; complimentary for Platinum One/Platinum frequent flyers.

Wellbeing Zone
- World’s first purpose-built inflight Wellbeing Zone.
- Stretch handles, guided movement program, hydration station, premium refreshments.
- Located between Premium Economy and Economy cabins.

Inflight Entertainment & Connectivity
- Most significant system upgrade in a decade.
- Features: journey planner synced with cabin lighting, 15 languages, “watch together” sharing, fast Wi-Fi, Bluetooth pairing.
- Personalized viewing history and intuitive interface.

Leadership Comments
- Vanessa Hudson (Qantas CEO): Cabin designed around the science of long-haul wellbeing, aiming for passengers to “arrive feeling their best.”
- David Caon (Caon Design Office): Every detail bespoke for Qantas, focused on comfort, ergonomics, and refreshed arrival.

Future Routes
- Sydney–London first, followed by Sydney–New York.
- Additional east coast international connections to be announced.

This is a bold reimagining of ultra-long-haul travel: Qantas is betting on science-backed comfort, wellbeing innovation, and premium differentiation to make 20+ hour flights not just tolerable, but appealing.