SHANGHAI — China Eastern Airlines (MU) has announced that it will launch the world’s longest direct passenger flight connecting Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) with Buenos Aires (EZE), starting December 4, 2025.
The journey, covering 12,229 miles, will last nearly 29 hours and include a two-and-a-half-hour layover in Auckland (AKL). Despite the stop, passengers will remain onboard the same aircraft, classifying the service as a direct flight and setting a new benchmark in ultra-long-haul air travel.
Longest One-Stop Direct Service
This Shanghai–Buenos Aires link will redefine endurance flights in commercial aviation.
- Outbound journey: Approximately 26 hours
- Return journey: Nearly 29 hours
By keeping passengers on the same aircraft, China Eastern simplifies the experience, reducing disruptions commonly associated with flight transfers. The service will operate twice weekly, with departures from Shanghai scheduled for Mondays and Thursdays, and flights from Buenos Aires on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Aircraft and Operations
While China Eastern has not officially confirmed the aircraft model, analysts strongly suggest the Boeing 777-300ER. Known for its long-range capability and operational reliability, the 777-300ER has successfully served other ultra-long-haul sectors globally, making it the most likely candidate for this record-setting route.
The aircraft’s configuration will allow the airline to offer a three-class service: First, Business, and Economy, ensuring options for both luxury travelers and those seeking affordable long-haul travel.
Ticket Pricing and Classes
Tickets for the Shanghai–Buenos Aires route are already available for purchase.
- Shanghai → Buenos Aires: From £1,280
- Buenos Aires → Shanghai: From £1,400
The wide range of travel classes—First, Business, and Economy—positions China Eastern to serve diverse passenger groups, from business professionals to leisure travelers.
Diplomatic and Economic Impact
This flight represents more than just an aviation record. It has strong diplomatic and commercial implications, particularly for strengthening ties between China and Argentina.
Direct connectivity eliminates the need for stopovers in Europe or North America, offering:
- Faster and more secure travel routes
- New opportunities for trade and tourism
- Strategic bypass of conflict-prone regions
By establishing this direct link, China Eastern enhances its role as a bridge between Asia and South America, reshaping global travel flows.
Redefining Global Air Routes
Before this announcement, the Beijing–São Paulo route operated by China Airlines held the record for the longest one-stop flight. China Eastern’s Shanghai–Buenos Aires route surpasses this record, cementing its position as a pioneer in ultra-long-haul operations.
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For frequent travelers and businesses, this service eliminates multiple connections, cutting down total travel time and stress, while offering direct access between two major global economies.
Travel Insight: Booking Strategy
Alongside the new route, travel industry expert Andrea Platania of Transfeero shared valuable advice for long-haul passengers.
He emphasized that traditional travel agents can often match or beat online fares if shown proof, even when the price disappears during online booking attempts. This strategy, though often overlooked, can save passengers hundreds of pounds on routes like the Shanghai–Buenos Aires service.
Bottom Line
China Eastern’s new Shanghai–Buenos Aires flight is not just the world’s longest direct passenger route—it is a symbol of shifting aviation dynamics.
By blending operational endurance with economic, diplomatic, and strategic benefits, the airline has positioned itself at the forefront of global aviation. For passengers, this new route provides a seamless long-haul travel option, connecting two continents like never before.
FAQs – China Eastern’s World Record Flight
Q1: When does the Shanghai–Buenos Aires flight launch?
The service will begin on December 4, 2025, with departures twice weekly.
Q2: How long does the journey take?
The outbound trip is just under 26 hours, while the return takes about 29 hours.
Q3: Which aircraft will operate the route?
Though not confirmed, the Boeing 777-300ER is the most likely aircraft due to its range and reliability.
Q4: How much will tickets cost?
Estimated fares start at £1,280 from Shanghai to Buenos Aires and £1,400 for the return trip.
Q5: Why is this route significant beyond aviation?
The flight strengthens China-Argentina relations, provides a direct Asia-South America link, and bypasses traditional hubs in Europe and North America.
