In a move to strengthen its global network, Qantas is set to introduce nonstop flights between Sydney and New York by mid-2028. This new route is part of the airline’s ambitious Project Sunrise initiative, aimed at establishing direct long-haul connections from Australia to major global cities without the need for stopovers. This follows the airline’s earlier announcement of a planned Sydney-London nonstop service expected to commence in 2027.
Currently, Qantas operates flights from Sydney to New York with a layover in Los Angeles, taking approximately 21 hours in total. The upcoming nonstop service, which will be the first of its kind between Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and New York’s JFK Airport, promises to reduce the travel time to around 18 hours.
The fleet for these ultra-long-haul flights will consist of Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, specifically designed for journeys up to 22 hours. Qantas has ordered 12 of these state-of-the-art planes, which will accommodate 238 passengers across first-class suites, business suites, premium economy, and economy cabins. Additionally, a unique “wellbeing zone” will be incorporated to allow passengers to stretch, engage in guided exercises, and access refreshments during the extended flight.
Tickets for the Sydney-New York route are anticipated to go on sale in August 2027, with further details on fares and the exact start date yet to be disclosed by Qantas. The airline plans to receive its first A350-1000ULR in 2027, aligning with its timeline for the rollout of these new services.
By expanding its ultra-long-haul capabilities, Qantas aims to enhance connectivity for travelers seeking direct flights from Australia to major international destinations. This strategic expansion reflects a broader trend in the airline industry to cater to demand for more efficient and comfortable long-distance travel.