Overview
- All major airframe sections are now joined, with wings, tail sections and landing gear attached at Airbus’s Toulouse facility.
- The aircraft moves to a new hangar for engine installation and flight‑test instruments before a 2026 program, as the first of 12 A350‑1000ULRs slated for Qantas.
- Qantas targets the first half of 2027 for non‑stop Sydney–London and Sydney–New York services on flights of up to 22 hours, estimating up to four hours saved versus one‑stop routes.
- Ultra‑long‑range capability comes from an additional 20,000‑litre rear centre fuel tank and enhanced systems specific to the Project Sunrise configuration.
- The cabin is configured for 238 seats with a dedicated wellbeing zone featuring stretch handles, guided exercise programs, a hydration station, customised lighting and timed meals to help reduce jet lag.