Qantas is giving its new non-stop aircraft from Australia to New York and London a whole new look.
Following its record profit of $1 billion, the airline revealed how its first and business class cabins will look after unveiling prototypes for its A350s set to take off from late 2025.
Passengers who have the luxury to fly in the First suite can expect a “mini boutique hotel room feel”.
The airline said the suite is complete with an extra-wide fixed bed, separate recliner chair, personal wardrobe, dining table for two and a 32” ultra-high definition TV.
Meanwhile, every Business suite will have direct aisle access and a sliding door for privacy.
Other Business features include a two metre flat bed, storage (including a large mirror), cushioned leather ottoman, 18” ultra-high definition touch screen TV, large dining table and feature lighting.
The non-stop flight program – dubbed ‘Project Sunrise’ – will use a fleet of 12 Airbus A350-1000s that will ‘ take around 20 hours to reach the Big Apple and London, with passengers enjoying cabins with ‘the “most sophisticated and thoughtful design of any airline”.
Key to the cabin design, says Qantas, is giving passengers more space, by configuring the A350s to seat 238 passengers compared to the 300-plus seat layout featured by other carriers.
First and Business will also offer multiple personal device charging options including wireless induction charging.
The Qantas A350 will offer free high-speed Wi-Fi with partner Viasat following completion of key 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, with direct aisle access for all.
The cabins have been developed by a mix of aviation specialists, together with Australian industrial design studio Caon Design, and a team of scientists from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre.
Australian designer David Caon said it all came down to maximising space and improving sleep during flights.
“We began designing this aircraft cabin five years ago, working with Airbus and Qantas to maximise space, as well as creating a tailored lighting program that will influence mood and sleep patterns,” Mr Caon said.
“All the design and service elements will work together to significantly improve in-flight comfort, convenience and health and wellbeing and help minimise the old nemesis of jet lag.”
There will also be a Wellbeing Zone for all passengers, which will be unveiled alongside the Premium Economy and Economy cabins in the coming months.