Qantas to connect Sydney and New York non-stop from 2028

New York is about to feel a whole lot closer.

Qantas has confirmed plans to launch the first-ever non-stop commercial flights between Australia and New York, with direct Sydney to New York services expected to take off from mid-2028 as part of the airline’s ambitious Project Sunrise program.

The new route is expected to take around 18 hours, cutting approximately three hours from the current fastest journey and removing the need for a stop along the way.

Sydney to New York, without the stop

For travellers dreaming of Broadway shows, Central Park strolls and shopping their way down Fifth Avenue, the biggest change is a simple one: no connection.

Passengers will be able to board in Sydney and step off in New York, making the journey between the two cities simpler and more seamless.

Tickets for the new service are expected to go on sale from August 2027, ahead of the planned mid-2028 launch.

Meet the Project Sunrise A350

The route will be operated by Qantas’ specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft, designed specifically for ultra-long-haul flying.

Rather than packing in as many seats as possible, the aircraft will carry just 238 passengers across First, Business, Premium Economy and Economy.

There will also be a dedicated Wellbeing Zone, designed to give passengers a space to move and stretch during these exceptionally long journeys.

The Sydney to New York service will become the second route in the Project Sunrise program, following the planned launch of non-stop Sydney to London flights in October 2027.

New York, here we come

A non-stop flight of around 18 hours may still be a serious stint in the sky, but skipping the stopover could transform the way Australians travel to the US East Coast.

And with Qantas reporting growing demand for travel between Australia and New York, it seems plenty of travellers are ready to take the direct route.

Planning a New York escape? Speak with your expert ATPI Cruise & Travel specialist and let us help you start mapping out your next adventure.