TOULOUSE- Airbus is entering the next phase of its A350-1000ULR development program with plans to conduct one of its longest certification flights yet.
The European aircraft manufacturer will send the new ultra-long-range jet to Australia in the latter part of next week as it advances testing for Qantas (QF) and its ambitious Project Sunrise initiative.
The aircraft is being developed to enable nonstop flights from Sydney Airport (SYD) to destinations including London Heathrow Airport (LHR). While Airbus has not confirmed the exact destination in Australia, the company says the journey forms an important part of the certification campaign before the aircraft enters commercial service with the Australian airline.
Airbus A350 Certification Test
The upcoming mission will see Airbus fly the A350-1000ULR on an approximately 22-hour journey, making it one of the longest test flights planned during the aircraft’s certification program.
Airbus previously outlined that the certification campaign would require between 75 and 80 flight-test hours, with this single mission contributing roughly one-quarter of that total.
Flight testing of the first development aircraft, identified as MSN707, began on June 2. Since then, Airbus has been evaluating the aircraft’s performance, systems, and endurance before clearing it for airline operations.
Unlike demonstration flights, certification missions are designed to validate the aircraft under real operating conditions.
Engineers use these long-duration flights to assess aircraft reliability, monitor onboard systems, and confirm that performance meets regulatory standards during extended operations.
Although Airbus has not revealed the precise Australian airport involved, the manufacturer confirmed that the aircraft will travel to Australia as part of the testing program.
Reports from Australian media have suggested Melbourne Airport (MEL) could receive the aircraft, but neither Airbus nor Qantas has officially confirmed that destination.
Qantas’ Project Sunrise Progress
The A350-1000ULR has been specifically developed to support Qantas’ Project Sunrise, which aims to connect Australia directly with major global cities through ultra-long-haul services.
Qantas plans to launch nonstop flights between Sydney and London in October next year using the new aircraft.
The airline selected the Airbus A350-1000 as the foundation for the project after seeking an aircraft capable of operating some of the world’s longest commercial routes while maintaining passenger comfort.
To achieve these missions, Airbus has modified the aircraft with additional fuel capacity and performance enhancements that extend its operational range beyond the standard A350-1000 configuration.
These changes are intended to support flights lasting more than 20 hours without requiring refueling stops.
Airbus Eyes Australia Flights
Airbus has not disclosed the exact date of the test flight but indicated that it is scheduled for the latter part of next week. The company also has not confirmed the routing or operational details beyond stating that Australia will be the destination.
Qantas has similarly limited its comments, confirming only that the aircraft’s visit forms part of the wider certification program. The airline has not addressed reports regarding Melbourne or announced any public activities linked to the arrival.
The successful completion of the endurance mission will mark another important milestone for Airbus as it works toward certifying the A350-1000ULR. The aircraft is expected to play a central role in enabling nonstop intercontinental services that were previously considered commercially impractical.
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