Qantas Airways announced plans to launch the world's longest direct flight in October 2025, connecting London and Sydney with a nonstop service lasting up to 22 hours. The airline unveiled its specially-modified Airbus A350-1000 jets, which will operate the 17,015-kilometer (10,573-mile) route. This new service will surpass the current longest flight operated by Singapore Airlines, which covers 15,349 kilometers (9,537 miles) to New York City in under 19 hours.
The Qantas A350-1000ULR will have a reduced passenger capacity of 238, compared to the standard A350-1000's 480 seats, with 140 in economy class. Passengers on the London-Sydney route will have access to a Wellbeing Zone for stretching and refreshments. Qantas indicated that ticket prices for the direct flights will be higher than those for flights with a stopover in Singapore, but will save travelers up to four hours of travel time.
Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings, noted that the economy seats on the new route would offer more legroom than many other long-haul airlines. She expressed concerns about the challenges of a 22-hour flight in economy class, suggesting that shorter flights might be preferable for comfort. Qantas also plans to introduce a direct service from Sydney to New York after launching the London route.