Travelers will soon be able to fly non-stop between Sydney and New York in just 18 hours. Australian airline Qantas announced that the direct route will start in mid-2028, cutting at least three hours off current flight times. The project, named Project Sunrise, will use specially designed aircraft to operate some of the longest commercial flights in the world.
Currently, flying with Qantas between Sydney and New York requires a stopover in Los Angeles and takes 21 hours. To make the 18-hour direct journey more comfortable, Qantas is introducing new Airbus A350 aircraft that feature a dedicated "wellbeing zone." Positioned between economy and premium economy cabins, this space will allow passengers to stretch, watch guided exercise videos, and get snacks and drinks during the long flight.
Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson said reaching New York non-stop completes a long-held vision for the company. While exact ticket prices have not been revealed, the airline previously indicated that direct fares could cost about 20 percent more than flights with stopovers. Tickets for the Sydney to New York route are scheduled to go on sale in August 2027.
The Sydney-New York service is part of a broader expansion plan that also includes direct flights from Sydney to London, planned for October 2027. Qantas has ordered 12 ultra long-range A350 planes and expects to train more than 360 pilots and 1,200 cabin crew before the full fleet arrives.