Do you know that almost 100,000 aircraft take off daily and land worldwide? Some of the largest aircraft in the world function as flying hotels that carry passengers across the globe in comfort and elegance. They carry out these international flights.
Up to 18 hours pass on some of the journeys. You may be wondering which flights have the potential to take this long. Here is the list of the longest commercial flights in the world!
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Top 10 World’s Longest Commercial Flight
The longest flight worldwide to date is the Singapore to New York flight over 9,537 miles that lasts 18 hours 40 minutes. The 2nd longest flight is also taken by Singapore Airlines from Singapore to Newark, crossing 9,523 miles in 18 hours and 25 minutes.
10. Houston To Sydney – 8,596 Miles
After being shuttered in 2020 due to the global pandemic, the route—which is flown by United Airlines—reopened recently. When this route was established, it represented a significant turning point in aviation history as it linked two significant centers that the massive Pacific Ocean separated.
From these two locations, it will take passengers 17.5 hours to travel this route, which is flown by United Airlines and covers an incredible 8,596 miles on its longer itinerary.
9. Darwin To London – 8,620 Miles
Lasting about 18 hours, this ultra-long-haul journey is among the longest available direct flights taken by Qantas. The route offers a direct link for travelers on business or vacation, which makes a substantial contribution to the reduction of the geographic gap between the UK and Australia.
Acknowledged for its commitment to innovation, Qantas used the state-of-the-art technology from the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to enhance passenger experience and reduce fuel consumption.
8. Bangalore To San Francisco – 8,701 Miles
The massive 8,701-mile route linking Bangalore and San Francisco is a shining illustration of how air travel has become increasingly international. Air India operates this nonstop service from Silicon Valley, California, to India’s technological hub.
After over 16 hours, passengers can go to a different continent easily. Traveling across continents, travelers traverse many time zones, showcasing the incredible capabilities of contemporary aviation.
7. Singapore To Los Angeles – 8,770 Miles
Singapore Airlines created a third ultra-long-haul flight since their aim was unfulfilled by the two longest nonstop routes in the world!
The Airbus A350-900ULR takes off from Changi Airport and covers more than 8,700 miles within more than 15 hours. Each flight can take up to 161 passengers, including 67 Business seats and 94 Premium Economy seats, back and forth between these destinations.
6. Dubai To Auckland – 8,824 Miles
This journey measured 8,824 miles. Here’s a fun fact: In 2016, it held the record for the longest flight path in history. It’s amazing how rapidly things can change and evolve in the aviation industry since it only took 8 years for it to drop to sixth position on the list!
The flight is expected to take around 16 hours, arriving at Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airspace on the planet.
5. Auckland To New York – 8,828 Miles
It is now simpler than ever to go from Auckland to New York (JFK airport). This route is available by Air New Zealand. Direct flights are available on this route by United Airlines as well.
The flight is expected to last 16 hours and 15 minutes. Qantas began operating the AKL-JFK route in 2023, giving Air New Zealand some competition.
4. Melbourne To Dallas – 8,992 Miles
Standing fourth on the list is the flight from Melbourne to Dallas, United States. On December 3, 2022, this non-stop service was launched. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is the aircraft type often used to take this flight, which blends efficiency and comfort for the lengthy voyage.
The total length of this route is around 8,992 miles. With an average travel duration of over 18 hours, it provides a direct path between the vibrant city of Dallas and Melbourne.
3. Perth To London – 9,010 Miles
In third place of world’s longest flight, we have the route from Perth to London, with a total distance of 9,010 miles. With this flight, West Australians may now travel to England’s capital city in a little over 18 hours.
It is a “direct” route since it has a single flight and a stop. The Perth-Heathrow route is the only nonstop route on this list that involves an airport in Europe.
2. Singapore To Newark – 9,523 Miles
Little did you know that the Singapore-Newark flight has secured the longest commercial flight title twice during 2004-2013 and 2018-2020. Singapore Airlines also operates this second-longest route, which is over 9,500 miles and lasts 18 hours and 25 minutes.
This route had previously been halted because of the pandemic in 2020 and was officially reopened in March 2022.
1. Singapore To New York – 9,537 Miles
This Singapore – New York flight route is currently the longest flight in the world. Launched in 2020, this nonstop air service prioritizes passenger comfort while utilizing cutting-edge technology. It is 9,537 miles long, so the New York to Singapore flight time is around 18 hours and 40 minutes to complete.
Due to its long hours, each flight like this requires four pilots. Don’t need us to say, you can surely imagine how many difficulties this four-pilot team has to face during the lengthy voyage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There A 24-Hour Flight?
Although there aren’t any planned flights that go that long right now, there have been several that last far longer than a day. A Cessna 172 now holds the world record for the longest continuous flight in 1958 or 1959, lasting 64 days, 22 hours, and 19 minutes.
Do Pilots Sleep On Long Flights?
Yes. The pilots may sleep in secret from passengers on the majority of long-haul flights thanks to disguised beds. Because of the duration of flights and to provide them with adequate time for relaxation and sleep, certain long-haul flights need to have three or four pilots. This way, they can take turns and get some rest.
Are Nonstop Flights Safer?
Not really. In terms of overall safety, nonstop flights are not necessarily safer than transit ones. However, generally speaking, nonstop flights involve fewer problems. On nonstop flights, the chance of losing your luggage is lower.
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The Bottom Line
Above is a list of the longest nonstop flights in the world. Cutting-edge aviation technology has made long-haul travel easier and faster. Travelers may now see the world at previously unheard-of speeds as airlines introduce state-of-the-art planes and optimize travel itineraries. These lengthy flights connect continents and serve as a testament to aviation’s amazing advancements.