Qantas Tests Airbus A350-1000 ULR for Ultra-Long-Haul Flights, Targeting 2027 Launch

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The flight, operated by an Airbus and Qantas crew on July 27–28, simulated ultra-long-haul commercial routes like London to Sydney to test modified fuel systems and cabin comfort features ahead of upcoming airline service.

Melbourne to Toulouse Test Flight Route and Duration

The Airbus A350-1000ULR departed Victoria at 5:27 p.m. Melbourne time on Monday, July 27, and landed at Blagnac airport in Toulouse at 9:52 a.m. Tuesday, according to flight data. The aircraft followed a northeastern trajectory over the Pacific Ocean, crossed North America, and traversed the Atlantic Ocean. The journey covered 23 076 kilomètres in 24 hours and 24 minutes.

This return leg followed an initial test flight on July 23–24, when the same aircraft flew non-stop from Toulouse to Melbourne. That delivery route covered approximately 16 900 km in 19 hours and 12 minutes. The twin-engine widebody aircraft is a very-long-range variant of the A350-1000 assembled for Australian carrier Qantas.

Simulating Ultra-Long Commercial Operations for Qantas

The marathon test flight simulated ultra-long-haul commercial itineraries that Qantas plans to launch in October 2027.

The flight deck accommodated eight crew members from the Airbus flight test department alongside two Qantas pilots, supported by two Airbus design engineers. The occupants crossed three continents and two oceans, experiencing two sunrises and two sunsets during the airborne transit.

Aircraft Equipment and Fleet Timeline

Engineering teams used the flight to evaluate the modified architecture of the aircraft fuel tanks. They also tested interior amenities designed to mitigate passenger fatigue on flights lasting a full day, including a quieter cabin environment, customizable lighting systems, and enhanced air renewal technology.

Qantas is scheduled to receive its first A350-1000ULR (ultra long range) in April 2027. The airline has placed an order for twelve units of this variant, alongside an additional twelve standard A350-1000 aircraft designated for shorter long-haul routes.

For comparison, the current longest scheduled commercial flight is operated by Singapore Airlines between Singapore and New York JFK. That route spans roughly 15 350 km and takes upwards of 18 hours.

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