Qantas to Launch Nonstop Flights From Sydney to London in 2027
Qantas will launch nonstop flights from Sydney to London in October 2027 using specially modified Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft. According to Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson, the service eliminates the final stopover on the historic “Kangaroo Route,” reducing total travel time by up to four hours through a cabin designed specifically to combat jetlag.
How will Qantas fly nonstop from Sydney to London?
The airline is utilizing a modified Airbus A350-1000ULR, an aircraft developed for “Project Sunrise.” To achieve the distance, Qantas added a 20,000-litre fuel tank, extending the plane’s range to over 10,000 miles. This modification allows the aircraft to remain airborne for up to 22 hours.
CEO Vanessa Hudson stated at a ceremony in Toulouse that the aircraft was “designed from the ground up for ultra long-haul travel.” This includes a cabin where seating, lighting, and meal timing are calibrated by science to help passengers arrive in better physical condition than they would after a traditional connection.
What is the difference between the new route and the original Kangaroo Route?
The 2027 service marks the first time the east coast of Australia will connect to London without a stop. The contrast with the airline’s early operations is stark. When Qantas first established the route in 1947, the journey required seven stops and took four days to complete.
According to Hudson, those original stops included Darwin, Singapore, Calcutta, Karachi, Cairo, Castel Benito, and Rome. She noted that every subsequent generation of aircraft has removed at least one stop, and the A350-1000ULR removes the final one.
| Feature | 1947 Route | 2027 Route |
|---|---|---|
| Stops | 7 | 0 |
| Duration | 4 Days | Up to 22 Hours |
| Aircraft | Early Propeller | A350-1000ULR |
When can passengers book tickets for the Sydney-London flight?
Tickets for the nonstop service go on sale in February 2027. Once launched, these daily flights will operate alongside existing Qantas services, including the Perth–London nonstop and the Sydney–Singapore–London routes.
While the primary benefit is a time saving of up to four hours, the airline is positioning the service as a way to avoid the “accumulated fog” that typically follows a broken, multi-leg journey. For more on how to manage long flights, see our guide on optimizing long-haul travel.
How is Qantas preparing its staff for 22-hour flights?
The airline is currently certifying a massive workforce to handle the new fleet. According to company data, 40 pilots are already in A350 training. By the time the twelfth aircraft arrives, Qantas expects to have 360 pilots and 1,200 cabin crew certified.
Training is taking place at a new A350 simulator in Sydney, as well as through partnerships with British Airways in the UK and Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong.
What other destinations are planned for Project Sunrise?
London is not the only target. Qantas has confirmed that Sydney–New York will be the next Project Sunrise destination. The airline will announce the specific launch timeline for the New York route next year.
Market data suggests strong appetite for these flights. Qantas reports that its existing nonstop long-haul routes have seen the highest customer satisfaction scores in its international network since 2018, transporting more than 1.7 million passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the nonstop flight from Sydney to London?
The flight can last up to 22 hours, depending on wind and weather conditions.
What aircraft is Qantas using for this route?
The airline is using the Airbus A350-1000ULR, which features an additional 20,000-litre fuel tank.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets are scheduled to be available for purchase in February 2027.
How much time does the nonstop flight save?
According to CEO Vanessa Hudson, passengers save up to four hours compared to one-stop connections.
Do you think 22 hours in the air is too long, or is the time saved worth it? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more aviation updates.