Qantas will push ahead with its plans for non-stop flights from Australia’s east coast to New York and London.
The airline’s Project Sunrise was put on hold because of COVID but is now back on track.
Qantas has locked in a deal to buy 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, capable of making the trip in one hit.
The aircraft produce fewer emissions and less noise while providing a greater range.
Qantas plans to fit out the new planes to carry 238 passengers across four classes including First Class.
It will dedicate 40 per cent of its cabin to premium seats while economy passengers will be given more leg room.
Image: Qantas
It’s also promising the cabin will be specifically designed to make the long flights more comfortable for passengers while also having dedicated well-being zones where people can stretch out.
Qantas CEO Alan Joyce says the new ultra-long-haul flights will start by the end of 2025.
“New types of aircraft make new things possible. That’s what makes today’s announcement so significant for the national carrier and for a country like Australia where air travel is crucial,” Mr Joyce said.
“Throughout our history, the aircraft we’ve flown have defined the era we’re in. The 707 introduced the jet age, the 747 democratised travel and the A380 brought a completely new level of comfort.
“The A350 and Project Sunrise will make any city just one flight away from Australia. It’s the last frontier and the final fix for the tyranny of distance. As you’d expect, the cabin is being specially designed for maximum comfort in all classes for long-haul flying.”
Image: Qantas
Qantas also plans to purchase up to 134 Airbus A321XLRs and A220-300s to replace its ageing domestic fleet of Boeing 737s and 717s.
The first 40 are due to arrive late next year.
The announcement comes as the airline warns of a significant full-year loss despite a strong second half to the financial year as travel rebounds.
The demand for travel saw the airline’s domestic arm operate at 110 per cent of pre-COVID capacity over the Easter break.
The surge in revenue in the third quarter of the financial year helped Qantas slash $1 billion from its debt.
