Business travellers now have a faster, more direct link between Asia and South America, thanks to China Eastern Airlines’ new ultra-long-haul route.
China Eastern has inaugurated the world’s longest scheduled commercial passenger flight, reducing journey times between Shanghai and Buenos Aires by more than four hours compared with previous itineraries. The new service underscores how next-generation aircraft are reshaping global connectivity, catering to travellers who value fewer layovers and seamless long-haul travel.
The Record Flight
Flight MU745 departed Shanghai Pudong at 02:19 on Thursday, bound for Buenos Aires’ Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE). Operated by a Boeing 777-39P, the service includes a technical stop in Auckland for refuelling and crew rotation.
Covering 20,000 kilometres (12,400 miles) in 25 hours and 30 minutes, it now stands as the longest scheduled passenger service in operation. The milestone surpasses previous records, including Xiamen Airlines’ 19-hour nonstop New York–Fuzhou route, and Singapore Airlines’ Newark–Singapore and JFK–Singapore services.
Why It Matters for Business Travel
Earlier Shanghai–South America journeys often required connections through North America or Europe, stretching total travel times to 30 hours or more. By opening a direct “southbound corridor” across the Pacific, China Eastern is offering a streamlined option for executives and entrepreneurs moving between three continents.
For business travellers, the appeal is clear: fewer transfers, reduced risk of missed connections, and a more predictable schedule. The route also strengthens commercial ties between Asia and South America, supporting industries from finance and technology to agriculture and energy.
Airline Perspective
“This new route, spanning 20,000 kilometres, fills the gap in direct flights between Shanghai and major South American cities,” the airline said. “It opens a ‘southbound corridor’ connecting opposite ends of the Pacific and reshapes air travel between three continents.”