Starting in December 2025, China Eastern Airlines will operate the world’s longest direct flight, connecting Shanghai with Buenos Aires. The route will cover nearly 19,700 kilometers and take up to 29 hours.

The service will be operated with a Boeing 777-300ER, seating 316 passengers. Along the way, the aircraft will make a technical stop in Auckland, New Zealand for refueling, maintenance checks, and crew change. Since passengers remain onboard, the flight is officially classified as direct.

The airline plans to fly the route twice per week. The journey from Shanghai to Argentina will take about 25.5 hours, while the return leg will stretch to nearly 29 hours due to headwinds. Fares will start at around €1,500 for economy class and €4,200 and up for business class.

The decision to open this route reflects growing ties between China and Argentina. Beijing imports agricultural products from Buenos Aires while exporting technology and consumer goods in return.

At 8,082 nautical miles (14,968 km) each way, the Istanbul-Kuala Lumpur-Sydney route is the longest in Turkish Airlines’ network. The airline is using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the journey, offering a comfortable and modern experience for passengers.