Global air travel has reached a new milestone. The world’s longest direct airline route has officially been launched between Shanghai and Buenos Aires, connecting two cities located almost on opposite sides of the planet.

A Flight Lasting Up to 29 Hours

The new route, operated by China Eastern Airlines, officially began on December 4. Passengers on this journey can expect to spend up to 29 hours on board. The route covers an impressive 12,500 miles, nearly half of the Earth’s circumference.

With this launch, the previous record-holder—the Singapore–New York route operated by Singapore Airlines, measuring approximately 9,500 miles—has been surpassed.

The First Commercial Connection Between Antipodal Cities

China Eastern Airlines states that this is the first commercial airline route connecting antipodal cities—locations situated on opposite points of the Earth’s surface.

However, the airline does not claim the title of the longest non-stop flight, as the aircraft makes a two-hour stop in Auckland, New Zealand.

Important Distinction

It is important to clarify the terminology:

• Direct flight: operates under a single flight number with no aircraft change

• Non-stop flight: involves no landings between the origin and destination

Flight Schedule and Travel Time

Flights will operate twice weekly between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Ministro Pistarini International Airport in Buenos Aires.

The journey from Shanghai to Argentina takes approximately 25 hours, while the return flight lasts nearly 29 hours. In both directions, a short stopover in New Zealand is scheduled.

According to data from Skyscanner, the fastest previously available travel time between these two cities was around 31 hours, making this new route the most time-efficient option currently available.

Ticket Prices and Travel Conditions

Tickets are already on sale. One-way fares from Shanghai start at approximately £1,280, while round-trip tickets are priced at around £1,400.

Passengers opting for business class can expect to pay about £4,700. In return, they receive fully flat beds—a significant advantage on a journey lasting nearly 30 hours.

Who Will Break the Record Next?

The race for the world’s longest airline route continues. Australian carrier Qantas has announced plans to claim the title of the longest non-stop flight by 2027, with a proposed direct route between Sydney and New York, featuring no stopovers.

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