I’m here for an in-person preview of Qantas Airways’ newest plane type — one that will have the longest range of any commercial passenger jet in the world.
It’s all part of Qantas’ “Project Sunrise” initiative, which launched in 2017 and aims to fly nonstop from Sydney to both London and New York City. Qantas made splashy “research” flights on both routes back in 2019, and it used Boeing 787s that flew with just a few dozen passengers to lighten the load and extend the jet’s range.
Currently, no commercial aircraft can fly the routes with a full load of passengers and cargo.
But that will change with the new Airbus A350-1000ULR — the ULR is for “ultra long range” — that will be on display for media today at Airbus’ factory in France. Qantas is expected to take delivery of the planes beginning in April, paving the way for its new flights between Sydney and New York City as well as between Sydney and London, which would become the world’s longest regularly scheduled flights.
First up is London, and those flights will begin in the fall of 2027, Qantas announced today. The New York flights will follow shortly after.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration revealed that it’s testing new “e-gates” at one of the East Coast’s busiest hubs. If the trial goes well, travelers may see these new gates roll out to more airports.
The airline also said it’s “exploring” blocking the middles seats on some rows of its brand-new Airbus A321XLRs. TPG’s Sean Cudahy breaks down United’s possible move, including what might be behind the move to add the so-called Eurobusiness-style rows.
American Airlines confirmed that its route between Philadelphia and Doha, Qatar, is not returning. Instead, Qatar Airways will return to Philadelphia and restore its own nonstop service between the cities.
Posts in this newsletter contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products, and this may impact how or where they appear. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page.
Photo Credit: BEN MUTZABAUGH/THE POINTS GUY.
Together with
Two complimentary checked bags
Packing for your destination just got even better. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Basic Card members now receive two complimentary checked bags on domestic Delta flights. Terms apply.
The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
