Designed from the ground up, the next-generation A350 suites come with even more creature comforts.
A rendering of the new business-class suites equipped with sliding doors. (All images: Qantas)
Five years in the making, the prototypes of Qantas’ first- and business-class cabins for its revamped A350s ahead of the launch of Project Sunrise, an ambitious plan to operate ultra-long-haul flights from Australia to New York and London starting in late 2025. These aircraft cabins have been jointly developed by a team of aviation specialists, Australian industrial design studio Caon Design, and scientists from the University of Sydney. Qantas is creating extra space for passengers in all 12 of its Airbus A350s by reducing the seat count from the industry standard of 300-plus to 238.
The spacious First suite is designed to “make customers feel like they are in a mini boutique hotel room”; each one features an extra-wide fixed bed, separate recliner chair, personal wardrobe, dining table for two, and a 32-inch ultra-high definition TV. Meanwhile, every Business suite will have direct aisle access and sliding doors for extra privacy. Other Business features include a two-meter-long flat bed, generous storage spaces and a large mirror, a cushioned leather ottoman, an 18-inch ultra-high definition touch screen TV, a large dining table, and feature lighting. First and Business suites will also offer multiple personal device charging options including wireless induction charging.
Premium flyers can look forward to a tailored lighting program that helps regulate mood and sleep patterns to improve inflight comfort while minimizing the effects of jetlag. The design of the suites includes a variety of built-in storage compartments, allowing passengers to stow personal items within arm’s reach.
The new Qantas A350 will have six First suites in a 1-1-1 configuration and 52 Business suites in a 1-2-1 configuration. In the coming months, an announcement will be made releasing details of the premium economy and economy-class cabins, as well as the introduction of a Wellbeing Zone for all passengers on board.
Qantas has partnered up with Viasat to offer fast and free high-speed Wi-Fi across its A350 fleet; this will be rolled out following the 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.
First-class suites will feature a fixed bed and a recliner chair.
Qantas’ A350 First suites also come with a personal wardrobe and 32-inch ultra-high definition TV.
