Shanghai–Buenos Aires route via Auckland will set record as longest commercial flight.

China Eastern Airlines is preparing to launch the world’s longest passenger flight, connecting Shanghai and Buenos Aires with a stopover in Auckland. The journey will span up to 29 hours, covering more than 19,600 kilometers.

A Record-Breaking Route

Scheduled to begin on December 4, 2025, the new service will operate twice weekly. The Shanghai–Buenos Aires flight will take under 26 hours, including a 2.5-hour layover in Auckland, New Zealand. The return journey may last close to 29 hours, making it the longest commercial flight in the world.

Ticket Prices and Aircraft

Tickets are already on sale, with prices starting at £1,280 (Rp26.6 million) from Shanghai and exceeding £1,400 (Rp31.1 million) for return trips. The airline will use the Boeing 777-300ER, a wide-body aircraft renowned for long-haul endurance and efficiency.

Why It Matters

This ambitious route surpasses the current record holder, the Beijing–São Paulo service operated by China Airlines, which takes around 23 hours. Despite the Auckland stopover, passengers will not need to change planes, classifying it as a direct flight.

Strategic and Diplomatic Value

Beyond aviation records, the route is expected to strengthen ties between China and South America. By bypassing Europe and the United States, the service provides a streamlined alternative with fewer layovers—reducing logistical challenges for both business and leisure travelers.

The Future of Ultra-Long-Haul Travel

The launch underscores a growing appetite for ultra-long-haul travel that eliminates multiple transfers. However, the duration also poses challenges: passenger fatigue, service logistics, and fuel efficiency. Still, the Shanghai–Buenos Aires flight positions China Eastern at the forefront of aviation endurance.

With its 29-hour journey, China Eastern Airlines is redefining the limits of commercial air travel. More than a test of distance, the route highlights China’s intent to expand global connectivity with Latin America, offering travelers a direct and record-setting link across continents.

Sources: CNN Indonesia (2025) , detikTravel (2025)

Keywords: China Eastern Airlines, Longest Flight, Shanghai Buenos Aires, Aviation Records, Boeing 777, Global Travel