If you’ve ever wondered, perhaps with horror, about what a record-breaking 19-hour long-haul flight would be like, Qantas is offering a preview, and it’s not what you might think.
The so-called “Project Sunrise” takes its name from secret World War 2 flights between Perth and Sri Lanka and onto London, where flyers would experience two sunrises.
Sleep research specialists from University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre worked alongside Qantas designers on their proposed direct routes between Australia, New York and London. Last week they revealed the resulting prototype first and business class cabins for a dozen Airbus A350s that will fly the route post-launch in 2025.
Privacy is paramount with walled suites and sliding doors, behind which passengers can settle in to work or binge watch their latest series, taking advantage of free Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and multiple charging options, including wireless charging docks.
The aim is to create the sensation of a mini-boutique hotel. First class cabins, or First Suites, boast an extra-wide bed, a full-length wardrobe, a reclining lounge chair, and a fold-away dining table for two – as well as a 32-inch ultra-high definition TV.
Meanwhile Business class suites have a smaller TV but wider chairs that can be transformed into a two-meter-long bed. Other luxuries include a leather ottoman, storage and a large mirror.
Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO, made it clear that they view comfort as the key to being able to bear such long periods in the air.
Qantas unveils A350 First and Business Cabin for direct flights from Sydney to London and New York @Qantas #Qantas #Sydney #Australia #NewYork #Flights #businesstravel #Travel #LUXURY #LuxuryTravel #london pic.twitter.com/wT5CT9Z2p3
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We’re bringing everything we’ve learned, both technically and in terms of passenger comfort, to Project Sunrise flying
Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO
Although the other accommodation is yet to be revealed, we know passengers will have more space than usual. Project Sunrise A350s seat only 238 passengers, compared to over 300 seats crammed into more standard layouts.
The six first class seats will be in a 1-1-1 configuration. 52 business class seats will be set out in 1-2-1 formation, plus 40 premium economy seats in 2-4-2 and 140 economy seats in 3-3-3.
As well as all that, a “Wellbeing Zone” on each plane allows passengers the chance to leave their seats and enjoy refreshments.
We think our A350 cabins have the most sophisticated and thoughtful design of any airline, combining cutting-edge technology with sleep research to shape the look and feel for what is effectively a new era of travel.
Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO
Test flights were carried out in 2019, during which pilots underwent brainwave monitoring. For weeks before and after the trial flights, levels of melatonin – a sleep hormone – were tracked in their urine. This has resulted, among other things, in harnessing bespoke lighting effects to enhance mood and promote the right sleep patterns.
“All the design and service elements will work together to significantly improve inflight comfort, convenience and health and well-being and help minimize the old nemesis of jetlag,” said David Caon, the cabin designer.
