Qantas Set to Launch Groundbreaking 18-Hour Nonstop Flights from Sydney to New York in 2028
Australian flag carrier Qantas has made a groundbreaking announcement. The airline has confirmed the launch of the world’s first-ever nonstop commercial flights between Sydney (SYD) and New York’s JFK Airport starting in mid-2028. This initiative is part of its ambitious Project Sunrise programme. The approximately 18-hour flight will significantly reduce travel time, cutting more than three hours off the current fastest one-stop journey between the two cities.
The record-breaking route will be operated by a custom-configured Airbus A350-1000ULR (Ultra Long Range). The aircraft will be fitted with an additional 20,000-litre fuel tank, enabling it to fly more than 16,000 kilometres and up to 22 hours nonstop. Qantas has ordered 12 of these specially built aircraft, each seating 238 passengers across four cabin classes — first, business, premium economy, and economy.
New York is the second confirmed Project Sunrise destination, following nonstop Sydney–London flights set to launch in October 2027. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said: “From 2028, our customers will be able to board in Sydney and arrive in New York around 18 hours later without stopping once.” Tickets are expected to go on sale in August 2027, with fares projected to run roughly 20% higher than current one-stop equivalents. More than 360 pilots and 1,200 cabin crew are already being trained to operate the Project Sunrise fleet.