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Qantas announces world's first 20-plus hour direct flights

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Jun 27, 2026, 09:00 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-06-27-0900
Qantas announces world's first 20-plus hour direct flights

Australian airline Qantas has announced plans for the world's first direct flights exceeding 20 hours, connecting London and Sydney, aiming to conquer "the tyranny of distance."

Australian airline Qantas has unveiled plans for the world's first direct flights exceeding 20 hours, connecting London and Sydney. Speaking at Airbus headquarters, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson declared that "The tyranny of distance has finally been conquered," referencing the airline's long-held ambition for non-stop service on this route. The original "Kangaroo route" between London and Sydney, first flown by Qantas in 1947, required seven stops. This new ultra-long-haul service aims to drastically cut travel time, representing a significant advancement in global aviation. The airline is betting on passenger willingness to undertake these extended journeys.

Sources: BBC News

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