Qantas Backtracks On 33-Inch Legroom Project Sunrise Promise To Add Extra-Legroom Seats

Qantas has revised Project Sunrise seat plans as it eyes a October 2027 target for the SYD-LHR nonstop service using an Airbus A350-1000ULR. The aircraft will carry 238 passengers in a four-class setup: six first-class suites, 52 business, 40 premium economy, and 140 economy. The cabin introduces a tiered approach—economy plus at roughly 34 inches pitch, standard economy at 33 inches, with some rear seats at 32 inches—marking a shift from the originally promoted uniform 33-inch economy pitch. The long-haul configuration emphasizes low density for comfort and efficiency on flights of up to about 10,000 nautical miles.