Qantas set to reveal first route for record-breaking 22-hour non-stop flights

Qantas is set to reveal the first destination for Project Sunrise, its plan to offer nonstop flights from eastern Australia to London or New York in about 22 hours. The program, launched in 2017, relies on modified Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft with 238 seats and an extra rear-centre fuel tank that boosts range to roughly 10,000 nautical miles. Service is targeted to begin by the end of next year, with premium cabins commanding significantly higher fares to offset the lack of connections. Analysts say Gulf carriers will defend their hubs, while some see a positive market for ultra-long direct flights, contingent on fuel costs and demand.