The flight test, conducted in April over the course of three weeks, aimed to ensure mechanical compatibility between the aircraft, while also ensuring they can be flown safely in a range of configurations and lighting conditions.

An Airbus A350-1000, sporting Airbus livery alongside the Qantas logo and other poignant decals, landed in Sydney on Monday in support of Qantas' major Project Sunrise announcement.

The two airlines have signed a Letter of Intent to enter a 'definitive commercial agreement' which will see reciprocal interline ticketing and baggage across both airlines from the third quarter of 2022.

Qantas revealed on Monday that deliveries of its new A220 fleet are expected to begin as soon as late next year, while its A321XLRs will begin deliveries in late 2024.