SHANGHAI— China Eastern Airlines (MU) is set to operate the world’s longest direct passenger flight, linking Shanghai (PVG) with Buenos Aires (EZE) starting December 4, 2025. The journey spans over 12,200 miles and lasts nearly 29 hours, including a layover in Auckland (AKL).
The service marks a milestone in global aviation, surpassing previous ultra-long-haul records. Despite a stop in New Zealand, the route qualifies as a direct flight since passengers remain on the same aircraft throughout.
Photo:-https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:China_Eastern_Airlines,_B-2020,_Boeing_777-39P_ER_%2819992854280%29.jpgLongest One-Stop Flight in the World
The Shanghai–Buenos Aires connection sets a new standard for distance and duration in commercial air travel.
Covering 12,229 miles, the outbound journey from Shanghai to Buenos Aires takes just under 26 hours, while the return trip stretches to 29 hours.
Unlike connecting flights, this service maintains passenger continuity, with travelers staying onboard during the two-and-a-half-hour Auckland layover. This approach keeps the classification as a direct flight, ensuring fewer disruptions and simplifying the journey for long-haul travelers.
China Eastern has scheduled the new service twice weekly. Departures from Shanghai (PVG) will operate on Mondays and Thursdays, while flights from Buenos Aires (EZE) are scheduled for Tuesdays and Fridays.
Although the airline has not officially confirmed the aircraft type, industry analysts suggest the Boeing 777-300ER is a likely candidate due to its long-range capability and proven performance on similar ultra-long-haul routes.
Photo: By Anna Zvereva from Tallinn, Estonia – China Eastern Airlines, B-2021, Boeing 777-39P ER, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=67096372Ticket Pricing and Travel Classes
Tickets for the Shanghai–Buenos Aires service are already on sale. Estimated fares start at approximately £1,280 for Shanghai to Buenos Aires and £1,400 for the return leg.
The airline will offer First, Business, and Economy class options, catering to a wide range of passenger needs.
Diplomatic and Commercial Significance
Beyond the aviation milestone, the new route holds geopolitical and economic significance. Direct air service between China and Argentina strengthens ties between South America and Asia, offering an alternative to routes that typically pass through Europe or North America.
The connection also provides strategic advantages by bypassing potential conflict zones, giving passengers a more secure and reliable travel option.
Photo: By Tomás Del Coro from Las Vegas, Nevada, USA – B-7881 China Eastern Airlines Boeing 777-39P(ER) s/n 43285, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=62340173A Shift in Global Air Routes
Before this launch, the Beijing–São Paulo service operated by China Airlines held the record for the longest one-stop flight.
China Eastern’s new Shanghai–Buenos Aires route not only surpasses that record but also positions the carrier as a leader in ultra-long-haul connectivity.
For frequent travelers, this service eliminates the need for multiple connections, reducing overall travel stress while expanding direct access between two major economic hubs.
Travel Insight: Booking with Agents
In related travel advice, industry expert Andrea Platania of Transfeero highlighted a money-saving strategy.
He noted that traditional travel agents often match or beat online prices if shown proof, even if the fare disappears when attempting to book.
This approach, though simple, can save travelers hundreds on long-haul flights like the new China Eastern route, reinforcing the value of considering both digital and traditional booking options.
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