China Eastern Airlines has set a new milestone in global aviation with the launch of flight MU745, now recognized as the world’s longest direct commercial route. The flight landed at Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires, connecting China and Argentina with a non stop path covering nearly 20,000 kilometers.
The new service marks the first and only direct link between the two countries without the need for long layovers or connecting flights. This connection reduces travel time by more than four hours compared with previous routes that required stops in the Middle East, Europe, or the United States.
The flights are operated using the Boeing 777 300ER, known for its long range capability and capacity to handle extended operations. China Eastern will run two round trip flights each week. MU745 departs from Shanghai every Monday and Thursday, taking about 25 hours and 55 minutes to reach Buenos Aires. The return flight, MU746, leaves Argentina on Tuesdays and Fridays and takes around 29 hours due to air traffic patterns and wind conditions.
Though the route is classified as direct and non stop between the two main destinations, both flights include a scheduled stop in Auckland for cargo handling and operational needs. This allows the airline to maximize efficiency while still maintaining a seamless travel experience for passengers, who remain on the same aircraft throughout the journey.
Aviation analysts say this new connection reflects growing economic and tourism ties between China and South America. The route is expected to boost trade, cultural exchange, and high value travel between the two regions.
