We want to get where we’re going as quickly and as easily as possible. Travellers prefer non-stop flights to journeys with a break because they avoid the stresses associated with connecting flights and additional security procedures. Now more than ever, the option to fly non-stop, no matter how far away the final destination may be, is a valuable one, as it provides peace of mind and the convenience needed during times of uncertainty.
Flights connecting some of the farthest cities in the world are referred to as ultra-long-range flights. These flights are defined as being 16 hours or more.
There were almost 3,000 scheduled flights that fall under the ultra-long-range category last year, with the main connections between the following regions:
So how does one of the worlds leading aero-engine makers serve this small but high-value market? The airlines need an engine that operates efficiently on some of the longest flights in the world, but which also provides unrivalled economics across the rest of their network. The answer is the Airbus A350 XWB, powered by the most efficient large aero engine in service, the Trent XWB.
A short history of long-range flight
Rolls-Royce is synonymous with innovation that has created new possibilities. This is particularly evident from the way in which we have revolutionised how people connect throughout our history, continuing to do so today, and into the future. With people valuing their time more and more, it has become more important than ever to be able to connect with people and places as efficiently as possible. Rolls-Royce is perfectly placed to continue to support these needs. Thanks to our capabilities, expertise and technologies, we continue to lead the way in powering ultra-long-range travel efficiently and reliably.
The Trent XWB, which is the sixth generation of the Trent family, powers the longest commercial flight in the world. But we have a long history in powering ultra-long-range, record-breaking flights. Over the past century daring aviators have pushed the boundaries of engineering to win prizes, conquer new frontiers, and make the world smaller for passengers around the world.