Qantas has unveiled prototypes of the First and Business cabins on the A350 aircraft that will fly passengers non-stop on ultra-long haul flights from Australia to New York and London from late 2025 dubbed 'Project Sunrise' that will have pax spending a record-breaking 19 hours in the air.
Designed with ultra-long haul travel in mind, the flagship cabins were developed by a mix of aviation specialists, as well as Australian industrial design studio Caon Design, and a multidisciplinary team of scientists from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre including sleep scientists.
According to Qantas, key to the cabin design has been giving pax more space, made possible by the airline's decision to configure its 12 Airbus A350s to seat 238 passengers compared to the 300-plus seat layout specified by other carriers.
“Qantas has been the leader in opening up new long-haul flights for most of our history, and we’re bringing everything we’ve learned, both technically and in terms of passenger comfort, to Project Sunrise flying,” said Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce.
The First suite has a range of features, complete with an extra-wide fixed bed, separate recliner chair, personal wardrobe, dining table for two and a 32” ultra-high definition TV.
Every Business suite will have direct aisle access for ease of moving around the cabin, and Qantas is incorporating sliding doors into the suite for privacy, if desired. Other Business features include a two metre flat bed, large storage (including a large mirror), a cushioned leather ottoman, a 18” ultra-high definition touch screen TV, a large dining table and feature lighting.
First and Business will also offer multiple personal device charging options including wireless induction charging.
The Qantas A350 will offer fast and free high-speed Wi-Fi with partner Viasat following completion of satellite launches covering the Qantas international network. The aircraft will also feature Bluetooth connectivity allowing all customers to connect their own Bluetooth-enabled headset to the in-flight entertainment system.
The Qantas A350 will have six First suites in a 1-1-1 configuration and 52 Business Suites in a 1-2-1 configuration. It will also feature a Wellbeing Zone for all passengers, which will be unveiled alongside the Premium Economy and Economy cabins "in the coming months."
