Qantas has announced its world-first non-stop Sydney to London flights will take off from October 2027, marking an exciting new era for the iconic Kangaroo Route.
For the first time, travellers will be able to fly from Australia’s east coast to London without a stopover, with the inaugural Project Sunrise flights set to become the longest commercial flights in the world — taking up to 22 hours.
The service will operate aboard Qantas’ specially designed Airbus A350-1000ULR, purpose-built for ultra-long-range travel. The announcement coincided with the public unveiling of the first A350-1000ULR in Qantas livery at the Airbus manufacturing facility in Toulouse, offering a first look at the aircraft that will bring this milestone journey to life.
For travellers who value time, convenience and a seamless journey, this new non-stop service will offer an exciting alternative to the many one-stop options already connecting Australia with the United Kingdom.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson described the route as the carrier’s most significant milestone in more than a century of operation — and for Australian travellers, it’s a remarkable step forward in the future of long-haul travel.
“Qantas was built on the belief that Australia’s distance from the rest of the world should never stand in the way. The pioneering spirit of generations of our people has forged that path ever since, and today is the most significant step in that mission in our 105-year history,” she said.
“We made a commitment in 2017 that Qantas would conquer the final frontier of long-haul aviation and connect Australia’s east coast directly to London, something that has never before been possible. From October 2027, that promise becomes reality.”
Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator Don Farrell called the new service “a significant milestone for aviation and tourism in both Australia and the UK and a demonstration of the strong friendship between our two nations”.
“Australia is a world class tourism destination and the new direct route launched by Qantas will help bring more people to our shores to experience the best we have to offer,” he stated.
UK Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock is similarly buoyed by the new service.
“This is a historic moment, not just for British aviation and tourism, but for the millions of passengers who will experience flying from Sydney to London non-stop for the first time,” he remarked.
"Qantas' decision to make London the first destination for Project Sunrise is a powerful vote of confidence in the UK as a hub for global tourism, and a reflection of the deep ties between our two countries.
“Today marks a new phase of this role, opening up new opportunities for businesses, tourism, and the people who make both possible across Australia and the UK.”
Bookings are set to open from February 2027.
To be among the first to experience this world-first journey, contact Phil Hoffmann Travel and get ready to start planning your non-stop Sydney to London adventure.
