Let me quality the above. Qantas flew a new 747-400 from London to Australia empty other than a few management big shots. It JUST limped into Perth (west coast) and barely did that. SYD is another 4-5 hours or so further flying.

The 777's MIGHT get "empty" to SYD. MIGHT, as always head winds on the USA-OZ section. Even the seasonal UA ORD-HKG is a pinch ... they tug the 747 out to end of runway to save that few 100 pound of fuel that taxiing chews.

CO plans in April a NY-HGK direct on a 777, so clearly that route works.

If ANYONE could get a NYC-SYD direct flight it would be mega profitable. No-one has, so presumably it is NOT now possible until the A3XX hits the deck.

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~ Glen ~