China Eastern Airlines Introduces Longest Nonstop Flight to Buenos Aires
China Eastern Airlines has launched the longest intercontinental flight globally, connecting Shanghai with Buenos Aires in a nonstop journey that traverses almost half of the planet. This new route not only sets a record for the longest direct flight but also cuts travel time between China and South America by over four hours.
In a statement released on December 5, 2025, the airline confirmed that the inaugural flight successfully landed in Buenos Aires on December 4, 2025. The airline expressed enthusiasm about the new Shanghai–Auckland–Buenos Aires service, highlighting its potential to enhance travel between China, New Zealand, and Argentina. Additionally, it aims to facilitate faster transport of specialty goods and foster cultural exchange among these regions.
Flight Details
The service is operated by a Boeing 777-39P(ER), identified as B-7882, and is designated as Flight MU745. This route travels from Shanghai, China (PVG) to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), with a planned stop in Auckland, New Zealand (AKL). Notably, the aircraft features a unique livery inspired by the inaugural ‘National Museum of China.’
The images below showcase the impressive aircraft.
Image of the Boeing 777-39P(ER) – Side View
Image of the Boeing 777-39P(ER) – Front View
Image of the Boeing 777-39P(ER) – Rear View
Flight Performance
According to FlightRadar24, the aircraft successfully completed the 9,346-kilometer leg from Shanghai to Auckland in 10 hours and 53 minutes, reaching Auckland at 18:12 local time. The subsequent leg to Buenos Aires covered approximately 10,334 kilometers, taking 11 hours and 22 minutes and landing in Buenos Aires at 16:45 local time.
In total, the journey from Shanghai to Buenos Aires via Auckland lasted around 25.5 hours, including a scheduled two-hour layover in Auckland. The return trip is projected to take approximately 29 hours.
Strategic Importance
Auckland Airport’s Chief Executive, Carrie Hurihanganui, emphasized the significance of this flight, stating that it strengthens aviation connections between New Zealand and China as well as re-establishes direct access to Buenos Aires.
In 2025, roughly 94,000 passengers traveled between New Zealand and South America, with air trade between the regions reaching NZ$129 million in the year ending October 2025—an 11% increase from the previous year.
What do you think about the impact of this new flight route on international travel?
