China Eastern, a member of the SkyTeam alliance, has recently announced the launch of the world’s longest flight from Shanghai (PVG) to Buenos Aires (EZE). This 12,000-mile journey, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, will take approximately 29 hours and include a refueling stop in Auckland, New Zealand (AKL).

Flight Schedule and Ticket Prices

Starting on December 4, 2025, China Eastern will operate this route twice a week. The flight, with the designated flight number MU745, will depart Shanghai at 2:00 AM China Standard Time on Mondays and Thursdays. After a two-hour layover in Auckland, the flight will continue on to Buenos Aires, arriving at 4:55 PM Argentina Time.

On the return leg, Flight MU746 will depart from Buenos Aires at 2:00 AM on Tuesdays and Fridays, reaching Auckland the next day at 8:40 AM New Zealand Standard Time. The flight will then depart for Shanghai at 10:40 AM NZST and arrive the following day at 6:00 AM China Standard Time.

While this flight will be the longest direct flight globally, it is not considered the longest nonstop flight due to the refueling stop in Auckland. A one-way economy class ticket for this journey currently ranges from $1,538 to $2,270, while a lie-flat business class ticket costs at least $5,000 each way.

Importance of the Route

This new route marks China Eastern’s first connection to South America. However, Air China already operates flights from Beijing (PEK) to São Paulo (GRU) with a stopover in Madrid (MAD). This flight is known for being the longest direct flight in the world, taking a different path around the globe.

In the past, there have been efforts to establish a route between Auckland and Buenos Aires, crossing Antarctica. However, this route was discontinued in 2012 by Aerolineas Argentinas and later by Air New Zealand in 2015 due to low demand. Currently, LATAM Airlines operates flights from Santiago, Chile (SCL) to Auckland, with a stopover in Sydney (SYD).

Reasons behind the Route

It is speculated that China Eastern may be pursuing this route for political reasons, as well as to potentially establish a fifth freedom link between Buenos Aires and Auckland. This would cater to the demand from both Chinese and South American travelers.

Auckland Airport CEO Carrie Hurihanganui noted that 40,000 South Americans reside in New Zealand, and this new route will not only benefit tourism, trade, and education but also provide a direct link for those wishing to visit their home country.

Enthusiastic Support

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed his support for this new connection at a ceremony in Shanghai when the route was announced.