14,338 miles: Airbus’ custom jet for Qantas completes record 24-hour nonstop flight

Airbus and Qantas completed a record nonstop test flight with a custom A350-1000ULR from Melbourne to Toulouse.

The flight lasted about 24 hours and 25 minutes and covered 23,075 kilometers, setting a new commercial airliner endurance mark.

It tested key systems for Qantas’ Project Sunrise, including added fuel capacity, crew-rest areas, and long-duration operations.

Qantas aims to launch commercial ultra-long-haul service in 2027, potentially linking Australia’s east coast directly to London and New York.