Qantas has locked in the cabin design for its Airbus A350-1000ULR fleet, purpose-built for the carrier's Project Sunrise nonstop Sydney–London service launching in October 2027. The aircraft will be configured with just 238 seats across four classes, the lowest density of any A350 in operation globally, prioritizing passenger space and comfort on the nearly 20-hour journey.
Project Sunrise: A Strategic Bet on Ultra-Long-Haul
Qantas Group is making a significant investment in ultra-long-haul capability, with the A350-1000ULR enabling the first direct link on the historic Kangaroo Route between Sydney and London, a service the airline has operated since 1947. The decision to launch Project Sunrise on this prestige city pair, rather than New York, positions the route as a flagship for the carrier's long-term strategy. The QF1 and QF2 flight numbers are widely expected to be assigned to these services.
While the announcement has generated considerable industry buzz, the long-term viability of ultra-long-haul remains a question. The airline is betting that demand for premium, nonstop connectivity between Australia and Europe will sustain the investment, even as competitors like Starlux Airlines expand their own transpacific networks.
First Class: Enclosed Suites with Circadian Lighting
The six first suites are arranged in a 1-1-1 configuration, each featuring an 80-inch flat bed, a separate reclining armchair, and a flexible work-and-dining space for one or two passengers. A full-length wardrobe and multiple storage compartments are included. The multi-layer memory foam mattress was developed through months of pressure-mapping tests. Lighting can be programmed to support circadian rhythms, and a digital exterior panel allows discreet communication with crew.
Business Class: First Sliding Doors for Qantas
For the first time in Qantas history, business class suites will feature sliding doors for enhanced privacy. The 52 suites are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, with an adjustable divider between alternating center seats. Each suite includes an 80-inch flat bed, a large dining table, and increased storage. Flexible dining will allow passengers to time meals with scientifically optimized windows, and luminescent lighting will dim at intervals to encourage sleep.
Premium Economy and Economy: Redesigned for Long Haul
The 40-seat premium economy cabin, in a 2-4-2 layout, has been redesigned with an ergonomic leg and calf rest system, an 8-inch winged privacy headrest, and dedicated storage pockets. It offers the most generous seat pitch of any Qantas aircraft. The 140-seat economy cabin, in a 3-3-3 configuration, also features increased pitch, with 42 Economy Plus seats at the front offering 34-inch pitch, priority boarding, and overhead bin access. Over 70% of seats on the aircraft will have 33 inches or more of pitch. Qantas Platinum One and Platinum frequent flyers receive complimentary Economy Plus access at booking; Gold members can access it 24 hours before departure.
Inflight Wellbeing Zone and Entertainment
Qantas will introduce the world's first purpose-built inflight wellbeing zone, located between premium economy and economy. Designed by Caon Design Office, it features sculpted wall panels, integrated stretch handles, a guided on-screen movement program, a hydration station, and premium refreshments. The inflight entertainment system, the airline's most significant upgrade in over a decade, includes an on-screen journey planner synced with cabin lighting, available in 15 languages, a watch-together feature for up to three passengers, fast Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth pairing across all cabins.
The cabin design reflects extensive research into passenger wellbeing on ultra-long-haul flights, with seating, lighting, dining, and movement all coordinated to help passengers rest, stretch, and arrive refreshed. Pre-selection of meals will be available across all cabins.
As the aviation industry watches Project Sunrise's progress, the cabin finalization marks a key milestone. The broader trend of premium economy outpacing first class is evident here, with Qantas offering only six first suites while expanding premium economy and business capacity. The airline's investment in ultra-long-haul could reshape competition on routes between Australia and Europe, particularly as carriers like Riyadh Air accelerate their own London services.
