Qantas Project Sunrise goes ahead, 12 new A350-1000s ordered

[Melburnian1]

So MEL is getting a PS flight first!

Is this because it's a slightly longer distance than to SYD, and hence a 'better' test of the aircraft's capabilities?

Will it be fully loaded with (up to) 238 passengers and luggage, although presumably no freight?

'The Australian' says that the flight is on 24 July 2026. I assume that's the departure date, so probably a 25 July arrival in MEL, a Saturday.

The same report claims the purchase price of each A350-1000ULR is approximately A$330 million.

It quotes an analyst who suggests that the aircraft will be able to carry high value freight, and this should contribute a third of earnings. Remains to be seen: apart from blood and similar products, is there any freight that's so urgent it must save a few hours between continents? (I acknowledge that some air freight may instead spend hours at an intermediate airport if it has to be transferred from one aircraft to another at say SIN, HKG or elsewhere).

 

[TeaKozy]

Not that it's an issue on the SYD-LHR flights, but I'm curious how exactly the 'wellbeing zone' will work on those destined for JFK given how strict the TSA (and the crew) are about congregating in shared areas, such as the galley. Will they only one person at a time?

I know the A380 has the lounge, however not sure if being seated somehow permits this.

 

[dajop]

Is this because it's a slightly longer distance than to SYD, and hence a 'better' test of the aircraft's capabilities?

Common misconception. MEL is 200mi closer to TLS. People forgot about the east west element when heading north west.

Maybe so don’t have to worry about curfew?