Inside Qantas’ new ultra-long-haul A350s with stretch zone, jet lag lighting and fewer seats

From a stretch zone to free Wi-Fi and lighting aimed at easing jet lag, Qantas has set out what passengers can expect on its non-stop Sydney flights to London and New York

Qantas has unveiled the cabin design for the ultra-long-haul aircraft due to operate its non-stop Sydney flights to London and New York, with a stretch zone, free Wi-Fi and lighting designed to reduce jet lag on what the airline says will be the world’s longest commercial flights.

The airline said the first Airbus A350-1000ULR would be delivered at the end of 2026 for use on the two routes, cutting journey times by up to four hours compared with one-stop services.

The new aircraft have been designed around comfort, with fewer seats than other A350-1000s currently in service and more than 40 per cent of capacity given over to first, business and premium economy. 

Qantas said its version of the A350-1000 would have the lowest seat count of any aircraft of that type in service around the world.

A dedicated “Wellbeing Zone” will be available to all passengers, offering space for movement along with a selection of healthy snacks and refreshments during the flight.

Qantas said the aircraft would also feature 12 lighting settings, including “Sunrise”, “Sunset” and “Awake”, based on circadian-rhythm science intended to help passengers adjust to destination time zones and reduce the effects of jet lag.

Passengers in all cabins will also have access to fast, free Wi-Fi and Bluetooth audio connectivity.

The aircraft will include six first-class suites, each with an enclosed cabin, a two-metre-long flat bed and a separate reclining armchair. Business class will have 52 suites with sliding doors for extra privacy.

Premium economy will have 40 seats, with Qantas saying the cabin will feature a 20.3cm winged privacy headrest that adjusts for comfort, along with a calf rest designed for full leg cradling.

Economy, meanwhile, will have 140 seats with a 33-inch pitch and 13.3-inch entertainment touchscreens with Bluetooth audio connectivity.

The airline first announced Project Sunrise in 2017 as its plan to launch direct flights from Australia’s east coast to London and New York. It ordered 12 Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft in May 2022.

The first aircraft is due to enter service at the end of calendar year 2026, subject to regulatory approval and certification.

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_{Main image: The new Airbus A350. Credit: Qantas.}