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There’s nothing fun about an ultra-long-haul flight – except maybe the chance to binge on movies and drink free alcohol 30,000 feet in the sky. But if you’re planning to trek it from Sydney to New York or London in the near future, we have good news for you. Qantas will soon add 12 new and improved A350-1000ULR aircraft to its fleet, featuring the world's first in-flight ‘wellbeing zones’.
Launching in early 2027, these planes are the backbone of Project Sunrise – the world’s longest routes, flying non-stop from Sydney to London or New York, with an air time of up to 22 hours. The first completed Airbus rolled out of the hangar in France on April 12, with two months of flight testing to follow.
By reducing aircraft capacity from 300 to 238 seats, Qantas has carved out space for these sophisticated wellbeing zones. They'll be located between the economy and premium cabins, utilising acoustic panelling and soft, ambient lighting to create a calm sanctuary above the clouds.
To encourage passengers to get up, stretch and reset, the wellness zones will also be fitted with on-screen exercise programs featuring digital instructors, sculpted handrails specifically made for stretching, and a healthy, self-service refreshment station with snacks and hydration beverages. The best part is that the wellness zones are totally free for all passengers!
Those living the (quite literal) high life in business class can look forward to a two-metre lie-flat bed and a sliding door for privacy, while first class flyers will also score a private wardrobe, a 32-inch HD screen, and a tablet to control the mood lighting, temperature and even the humidity. It sounds just like a boutique hotel, but in the sky!
As for premium economy and economy, the design focuses more on ergonomic support. Passengers can sink into six-way adjustable headrests with comfy calf rests, plus enjoy extra storage shelves. An ultra-long-haul flight doesn’t sound so bad anymore, does it?