Airbus Conducts Record Toulouse–Melbourne Test Flight with New A350-1000ULR
Airbus is conducting a nonstop test flight from Toulouse, France, to Melbourne, Australia, with its new ultra-long-range A350-1000ULR as part of the aircraft’s certification campaign.
The flight, which is expected to last around 22 hours, stands out as one of the longest test flights ever operated by Airbus. It is also regarded as a major milestone in the Project Sunrise program being developed for Qantas.
The A350-1000ULR, which first flew in June 2026, has been designed to operate some of the world’s longest commercial routes with increased fuel capacity compared with the standard A350-1000. The aircraft is undergoing a series of range and performance tests as part of its certification process.
Qantas is expected to add 12 A350-1000ULR aircraft to its fleet for nonstop services lasting around 20 hours, including Sydney–London and Sydney–New York. Initial deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027.
