Phê Vé
June 18, 2026 • 3 min read
Qantas has adjusted its strategy for the Airbus A350-1000ULR, favoring Sydney over Melbourne. Discover these changes and useful information for Vietnamese travelers.
Qantas and the Sunrise Project
For nearly a decade, Qantas has sparked much speculation about launching non-stop flights from Australia's East Coast to London (LHR) and New York (JFK) through its "Sunrise Project." Initially, the airline planned to operate these flights from both Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL), which led to the order of 12 Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, designed specifically for long-haul journeys.
Strategic Changes from Qantas
However, recent indications suggest that Qantas is shifting its strategy, prioritizing Sydney over Melbourne. The airline will utilize only 6 of the 12 A350-1000ULR jets for flights from Sydney to London and New York, while the remaining aircraft will replace Boeing 787-9s on existing routes.
This means that the A350-1000ULR planes will not be used for the originally planned non-stop flights from Melbourne to London or New York. Instead, the airline intends to deploy them on other routes that do not require this extended range.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
For Vietnamese travelers planning to fly to Australia, non-stop flights from Sydney will be a more appealing option in the near future. Currently, no visa is required for transit through Australia, but if you plan to stay, be sure to check the specific visa requirements. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN) to Sydney typically cost around 15-20 million VND, depending on when you book.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
The peak season for visiting Australia is from December to February, when the weather is most pleasant. It’s advisable to book tickets a few months in advance to secure the best prices, and you can easily explore both Sydney and Melbourne through short domestic flights.
Future Prospects
Qantas is getting closer to introducing its first Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, allowing the airline to operate some of the longest flights in the world. While they still plan to operate flights from Sydney to London and New York, opportunities for flights from Melbourne now seem unlikely.
This could lead to Qantas gradually dominating the long-haul market from Sydney, while Melbourne may have to wait a bit longer for a chance to participate in these prominent international routes.
Conclusion
The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and Qantas' strategic adjustment reflects the current market realities. Exploring new routes not only enhances the airline's competitiveness but also opens up new opportunities for travelers. If you love visiting major cities like London and New York, keep an eye on these changes to plan your next adventure!
Article sourced and edited from: One Mile at a Time
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