The airline China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires is launching a unique route, which will become the longest direct flight with one stopover between China and Argentina. The route length will exceed 12,000 miles, and the total travel time will be about 29 hours. The new route will begin in December 2025 and will operate twice a week. The launch of this route will strengthen transport and economic ties between Asia and Latin America.

China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires: Beginning of a New Era

In December 2025, the route China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires will be launched, making history as the longest direct flight with an intermediary landing. The flight will use a Boeing 777-300ER, specially adapted for ultra-long routes.

The route length will exceed 19,300 km, making it one of the most impressive achievements in global aviation. The flight time will take up to 29 hours towards Argentina and about 25.5 hours on the return trip, considering tailwinds.

China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires Flight Schedule

• Flights from Shanghai are scheduled on Monday and Thursday.

• Flights from Buenos Aires will operate on Tuesday and Friday.

• There will be two frequencies per week, ensuring connectivity stability.

The aircraft will stop in Auckland (New Zealand) for refueling and maintenance, but passengers will not disembark, which is why the flight is officially considered direct.

Ticket Prices

Preliminary data suggest:

• economy class tickets on the China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires route will cost about $1,538-2,270,

• business class is priced at $5,000-6,400 USD.

Significance for China and Latin America

The launch of China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires has strategic importance:

• Economy: a direct airway for freight transport and tourist flows.

• Tourism: simplifying access for travelers from Asia to South America and vice versa.

• Culture and education: more opportunities for student programs and scientific projects.

Competition and World Records

Currently, the longest route was considered to be the Air China Beijing-Sao Paulo flight via Madrid. However, China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires will surpass its duration by almost 3 hours.

In the “non-stop” category, routes from Singapore to New York (≈18.5 hours) lead, but among “direct flights with stop,” the Chinese route will be an absolute record-holder.

Challenges and Obstacles

Organizing the China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires flight requires a special approach:

• crew work with multiple shifts,

• additional health measures for passengers,

• high fuel costs and logistic complexities.

Nevertheless, launching such a route opens new horizons for global aviation and strengthens China’s role as a global player.

Conclusion

The China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires route is not just a flight, but a symbol of strategic convergence between China and Latin America. It connects two continents, sets a new record in long-haul flights, and opens up opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will the China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires route start?
The flight launch is planned for December 2025.

2. How long is the China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires flight?
Approximately 29 hours towards Argentina and 25.5 hours on the return trip.

3. How often are the flights?
Twice a week: from Shanghai on Mondays and Thursdays, from Buenos Aires on Tuesdays and Fridays.

4. Is this a non-stop flight?
No, there is one stop in Auckland, but passengers do not leave the aircraft.

5. What is the ticket cost for China Eastern Shanghai-Buenos Aires?
Economy class — from $1,538 to $2,270, business class — $5,000-6,400 USD.