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Qantas Completes First Test Flight of A350-1000ULR

July 24, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Qantas' A350-1000ULR completes first test flight from Europe to Australia.
The aircraft flew from Toulouse, France to Melbourne, Australia in 19 hours.
The test flight aimed to evaluate the jet's specialized fuel system.
Qantas plans to launch non-stop Sydney-London flights in October 2027.

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Strategic Implications

This test flight may indicate Qantas' confidence in its ultra-long-haul capabilities, which could strengthen its competitive position in the global aviation market. The successful completion of the test flight suggests that Qantas is on track to launch its Project Sunrise flights, which could have significant implications for the airline's network expansion and customer experience.

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What Happened

Airbus Aircraft Embarks On Historic Journey From Europe To Australia

Qantas has completed the first test flight of its A350-1000ULR aircraft from Toulouse, France to Melbourne, Australia, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s Project Sunrise initiative. The test flight, which took 19 hours, aimed to evaluate the jet’s specialized fuel system and its ability to fly non-stop for up to 22 hours. Qantas plans to launch non-stop Sydney-London flights in October 2027, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in April 2027. The airline’s CEO, Vanessa Hudson, expects the launch of the Sydney-London route to stimulate demand for the service out of other airports, according to news.com.au.

Source | Originally Published: July 23, 2026

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