China Eastern Launches Record-Breaking 29-Hour “World’s Longest Flight”

December 09, 2025

China Eastern Airlines has made aviation history by completing what is now regarded as the world’s longest direct passenger flight, a 29-hour journey from Shanghai to Buenos Aires.

The record-setting route, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, left from Shanghai Pudong International Airport and traveled over 12,000 miles before landing at Ministro Pistarini International Airport in Argentina. The flight included a technical stop in Auckland for refueling, but passengers stayed onboard, allowing it to be classified as a “direct” service.

A New Benchmark in Ultra-Long-Haul Travel

This flight lasts up to 29 hours on the return leg, surpassing previous ultra-long-haul records held by routes like Singapore to New York. Strong headwinds on the Buenos Aires to Shanghai leg make it significantly longer, marking it as the longest direct passenger service ever completed.

According to the airline, the new route aims to boost economic and tourism connections between East Asia and South America, regions that usually require multiple stopovers to connect.

Twice-Weekly Service

The airline plans to operate the service twice a week, providing travelers with an easier option than multiple segment itineraries through Europe or North America.

Outbound flights from Shanghai take about 25 hours and 55 minutes. The return flight, facing strong trans-Pacific winds, hits the full 29-hour duration.

Rethinking Passenger Endurance

A flight of this length raises concerns about comfort, fatigue, and the future of ultra-long-haul travel. While premium passengers may find it manageable, experts point out that staying onboard for nearly 30 hours will test even the most experienced travelers.

Despite this, the inaugural flight received positive feedback. Passengers appreciated the convenience of avoiding multiple airport transfers.

A New Era of Global Flight Networks

China Eastern’s achievement indicates a growing trend among airlines to operate longer, nonstop routes as aircraft technology and operational planning continue to improve. Analysts believe this could lead to more ultra-long-haul services, connecting distant regions more efficiently than ever.