The first of 12 Airbus A350-1000ULRs ordered by Qantas has completed its maiden flight, advancing preparations for the airline's planned non-stop flights between Australia and Europe under Project Sunrise.

Aircraft MSN 707 flew from Toulouse for three hours and 43 minutes with Airbus flight test crews on board, reaching just over 41,000ft while carrying instrumentation used to validate modifications unique to the ultra-long-range variant.

The A350-1000ULR has been developed specifically to support Qantas' ambition of operating non-stop flights between Sydney and London, a route of almost 10,000nm that is expected to require flight times of up to 22 hours.

A key change is the addition of a rear centre fuel tank integrated into the aircraft structure, increasing range by around 1,000nm and enabling the aircraft to undertake some of the world's longest commercial flights.

During the first flight, Airbus assessed general aircraft performance and evaluated the new fuel system architecture. The campaign will also certify a redesigned galley cooling system featuring lighter refrigeration units, while extensive testing of cabin ventilation and temperature control systems will be carried out.

Following certification, MSN 707 will be retrofitted with Qantas' commercial interior.

The second A350-1000ULR for the airline is already at an advanced stage of production and is expected to become the first aircraft delivered to Qantas in April 2027 after completion of engine installation and its premium four-class cabin.

Qantas has ordered 12 A350-1000ULRs and a further 12 standard A350-1000s. Airbus says the A350 Family had secured 1,579 orders from 68 customers by the end of April 2026.