Refer China: World’s Longest 20,000km Direct Flight to Launch from Shanghai

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World's Longest Direct Flight Set to Launch: 20,000 km Journey from Shanghai

A new era in ultra-long-haul aviation is on the horizon as China Eastern Airlines announces the upcoming launch of the world's longest direct flight. Starting December 4, 2025, travelers will be able to fly from Shanghai to Buenos Aires with a single stop in Auckland — no transfers required.

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The newly launched Shanghai–Auckland–Buenos Aires route will span approximately 20,000 kilometers, establishing the longest direct air service globally. This is the first and only direct connection between China and Argentina, significantly enhancing travel and trade between the two nations.

Operated by a Boeing 777, the service will offer two round trips weekly. Outbound flights depart Shanghai on Mondays and Thursdays, taking about 25 hours and 55 minutes. Return flights leave Buenos Aires on Tuesdays and Fridays, with a slightly longer duration of 29 hours.

This southern route, which includes a strategic stop in Auckland, offers a faster and more efficient alternative to traditional northern connections via Europe or North America. Travelers will benefit from shorter flight times, reduced jet lag, and more streamlined transits.

China Eastern is also applying for Fifth Freedom of Flights on this route, allowing the airline to carry passengers and cargo between Auckland and Buenos Aires. This move is expected to foster stronger economic ties and smoother travel experiences among China, New Zealand, and Argentina.

With this groundbreaking route, China Eastern not only sets a new benchmark for long-distance air travel but also opens new frontiers for cultural, economic, and people-to-people exchange across three continents.

Source: 央视新闻客户端