TOULOUSE, FRANCE – Airbus has completed the first flight of the A350-1000ULR, the ultra-long-range variant being developed for Qantas Airways’ Project Sunrise programme. The aircraft, designated MSN 707, is the first of 12 A350-1000ULRs ordered by the Australian carrier and completed its maiden flight from Toulouse on 2 June 2026.

First flight marks start of certification campaign

The aircraft flew for three hours and 43 minutes, reaching an altitude of just over 41,000 feet. Operated by a dedicated Airbus Flight Test crew, the flight included general aircraft performance evaluations and testing of the aircraft’s new fuel system architecture.

The flight marks the beginning of a two-month flight test campaign aimed at certifying modifications introduced for the ultra-long-range variant. These include the integration of an additional rear centre tank (RCT), which increases the aircraft’s range by approximately 1,000 nautical miles.

Designed for non-stop Sydney–London operations

The A350-1000ULR has been developed specifically to support Qantas’ planned non-stop services between Sydney and London, covering nearly 10,000 nautical miles with flight durations of up to 22 hours.

As part of the certification programme, Airbus will also evaluate a new galley air-cooling system featuring lighter and more efficient refrigeration units designed for extended-duration flights. Cabin ventilation and temperature-control systems will also undergo testing.

Following completion of the flight test programme, MSN 707 will be retrofitted to Qantas’ commercial cabin specifications.

Project Sunrise fleet progressing

Airbus confirmed that the second A350-1000ULR destined for Qantas, and the first scheduled for delivery in April 2027, is already at an advanced stage of final assembly and is expected to leave the paint shop shortly. Cabin installation and engine integration will follow before delivery.

Qantas has ordered 12 A350-1000ULRs under its Project Sunrise initiative, which aims to establish some of the world’s longest non-stop commercial air routes. The airline has also ordered 12 standard A350-1000 aircraft for use across its wider long-haul network.

A growing A350 family

The A350-1000ULR becomes the fourth passenger variant in the A350 family, joining the A350-900, A350-900ULR and A350-1000. Airbus says the family continues to set new benchmarks in long-haul travel through reduced fuel consumption, lower carbon emissions and enhanced passenger comfort.

The manufacturer also noted that development of the A350F freighter programme is progressing, with the aircraft’s first flight planned later this year. At the end of April 2026, the A350 family had accumulated 1,579 orders from 68 customers worldwide, with more than 700 aircraft currently in service with 41 operators.