In December 2025, China Eastern Airlines will launch the world's longest flight: 29 hours in the sky and 12,200 miles between Shanghai and Buenos Aires. Find out the schedule, ticket prices, route features and its significance for international travel

This winter, air travel will set a new record. Chinese airline China Eastern Airlines is launching a route that will be the longest in the world, both in terms of duration and distance.

Flights will begin on December 4, 2025, and tickets are already on sale.

Details of the new flight are described in this article.

In 2025, China allowed visa-free entry for 30 days for citizens of 74 countries. Read here who is eligible to enter, what documents are required and what to do if your country is not on the list.

Route of the world's longest flight

The trip will start in Shanghai, China and end in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina.

The route includes an intermediate stop in Auckland (New Zealand), but the flight is classified as direct - passengers do not need to change planes, they remain in their seats throughout the journey.

- Flight duration Shanghai – Buenos Aires: 25 hours 55 minutes, including stopover.

- Return flight Buenos Aires – Shanghai: 29 hours.

- Distance: 19,633 km (12,200 miles).

Thus, both directions broke the previous record for the longest non-stop flight in the world – the Beijing – São Paulo route, operated by China Airlines.

Which aircraft will serve the route?

According to preliminary information, the flights will be operated by long-haul Boeing 777-300ER airliners. They are capable of covering intercontinental distances and providing comfort to passengers even on long-haul trips.

Ticket prices and schedule of the world's longest flight Shanghai – Buenos Aires

Tickets for the new route are already available:

- Shanghai – Buenos Aires: from 1,725 ​​US dollars.

- Buenos Aires – Shanghai: from 1887 USD.

Flights will operate twice a week:

- From China – on Mondays and Thursdays,

- From Argentina – on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Seats are available in first, business and economy class.

Why is the launch of the Shanghai – Buenos Aires route important?

The new air route has not only practical but also strategic importance. Experts note that the launch could be a “diplomatic and commercial gesture” aimed at strengthening cooperation between China and South America.

In addition, this flight opens up an alternative route that reaches Europe and the US and avoids transit through potential conflict zones. This could make it attractive for both business and tourists.

Useful advice for travelers planning a flight from Shanghai to Buenos Aires

While airlines offer new records, travel experts remind of simple ways to save. Thus, Transfeero specialist Andrea Platania advises to contact traditional travel agents: many of them are ready to offer a lower or the same price as on the Internet, even if the promotional fare has already disappeared. This can help save hundreds of pounds on long-haul flights.

The launch of the longest flight in the world demonstrates not only the technical capabilities of modern aviation, but also a new level of global mobility. For travelers, this is a chance to take advantage of a unique route that connects two continents without transfers, and for countries - another step towards strengthening international ties.

If you are planning not only a trip, but also moving abroad for work or study, it is worth preparing in advance. Our immigration lawyers will help with visas, work permits, family reunification documents and legalization of residence in any country. Contact us for a consultation - and your global journey will begin confidently and without unnecessary risks.

Reminder! Argentina is not only a fantastic country to visit, but also a great place to live. It offers expats a unique combination of European and Latin American values, a variety of landscapes and a rich culture. Argentina also stands out for its affordable prices. We have already told you how much it costs to live in Argentina.

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