China Eastern Airlines launched the world’s longest one-way flight on Thursday. Flight MU745 departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport. It flies via Auckland, New Zealand, and continues to Buenos Aires, Argentina. The total route spans about 20,000 kilometers, crossing both hemispheres. The flight reduces travel time between China and South America by over four hours.
The airline will operate two round-trip flights per week on this route. This new corridor fills the gap for direct flights from Shanghai to major South American cities. It also establishes a “southbound corridor” across the Pacific. The route reshapes air connectivity among Asia, Oceania, and South America. Passengers now have faster and more convenient connections.
Previously, direct flights required transit stops due to long distances and aircraft limitations. The new route stops in Auckland instead of Europe or North America. This reduces travel time from roughly 30 hours to about 25. Travelers benefit from shorter flights and smoother connections. The airline calls it a historic milestone in global aviation.
China Eastern aims to strengthen trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the continents. The route showcases China’s growing influence in global air travel. Officials say the southern corridor is safer and more efficient. Passengers can expect reliable service and improved logistics. The airline plans to expand operations along similar long-distance routes in the future.
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