Airbus: Successful First Flight of the A350-1000 ULR for Qantas
Airbus announces the successful first flight of the A350-1000ULR ordered by Qantas. This ultra-long-range aircraft, equipped with an additional central fuel tank, marks the beginning of a two-month test campaign to certify modifications to the airframe.
An Aircraft Designed to Overcome the Ultimate Distance Barriers
The A350-1000ULR developed for Qantas Airways aims to enable non-stop flights between Sydney and London, covering a distance of nearly 10,000 nautical miles with flight durations reaching 22 hours. This capability is primarily based on the integration of an additional Rear Center Tank (RCT) into the aircraft's structure, increasing the range by 1,000 nautical miles compared to existing A350 variants.
The first unit (MSN 707), delivered in Toulouse for testing, took off on June 2nd and flew for three hours and forty-three minutes, reaching an altitude of 41,000 feet. The Airbus flight test crew conducted general performance checks and tested the new fuel management system architecture.
Two-Month Certification for the Additional Tank
The flight test campaign extends over two months to certify the integration of the additional tank and associated modifications. Airbus will also validate a new cooling system for the galleys, offering lighter and more efficient refrigeration units for long flights, as well as cabin ventilation and thermal control.
After this testing phase, the first aircraft (MSN 707) will be returned to Qantas's commercial specifications. The second A350-1000ULR, set to be the first delivered to the airline in April 2027, is in the advanced final assembly stage and ready to exit the paint shop in the coming days.
Fourth Variant of the A350 Family
The A350-1000ULR becomes the fourth variant of the A350 passenger family, joining the A350-900, the A350-900ULR, and the A350-1000. This family has established itself as a benchmark in long-haul transport, significantly reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to the previous generation.
Qantas has ordered 12 A350-1000ULR as part of the Sunrise project, an initiative aimed at eliminating one of the last frontiers of non-stop flight from Australia. The operator has also ordered 12 standard A350-1000s for its future long-haul network. As of April 30, 2026, the A350 family had accumulated 1,579 orders from 68 customers, with more than 700 aircraft in service with 41 operators worldwide.
