Airlines

World first research shows ways to reduce jetlag ahead of Qantas Sunrise flights

It is feasible to lessen the effects of jet lag by changing the inflight travel experience, according to research results published today by Australian airline Qantas and the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney.

The well-being of passengers on long flights has been proven to be enhanced by different lighting and sleep schedules, mealtimes, and particular ingredients like chocolate and chilli. Unsurprisingly, exercise and movement are important.

QANTAS’ NEW YORK TO SYDNEY NON-STOP RESEARCH FLIGHT SET FOR TAKE-OFF(Opens in a new browser tab)

The groundbreaking research was carried out on test flights for Qantas‘ Project Sunrise programme, which will launch direct flights from Sydney to New York and London in late 2025.

During the 20-hour trip, researchers followed a precisely tailored meal, lighting, sleep, and mobility sequences while observing 23 volunteer passengers who were fitted with wearable gadget equipment.

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Initial findings, as yet unpublished, indicate that, compared to customers on a traditional inflight sequence of eating and sleeping, those on the tailored schedule experienced:

less severe jet lag (self-reported)
better sleep quality inflight
better cognitive performance in the two days after flight

The in-flight experiments included incorporating easy stretch and movement exercises as well as customized cabin lighting patterns to promote acclimatization to the destination time zone.

They also changed the meal service schedule to match the body clock and stimulate waking and sleep by employing certain menu items such as fish and chicken mixed with fast-acting carbs, as well as comfort foods such as soups and milk-based sweets. The aim was to promote the brain’s production of the amino acid tryptophan (‘Tryp’) to help passengers drift off more easily.

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.