Longest Flights in the World: Nonstop Journeys That Redefine Global Travel

If you're someone who dreads a layover, or you're simply fascinated by how far an airplane can travel without stopping, you've probably asked: what is the longest flight in the world? As of 2025, a growing number of ultra-long-haul routes crisscross the globe, linking distant cities with non-stop journeys that stretch past 17 hours. These flights connect some of the longest countries to travel to, combining advanced aircraft engineering with a demand for convenience, speed, and luxury. Below are the 12 longest flights in the world, broken down by route, duration, distance, and why each one represents a milestone in modern aviation.

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1. New York (JFK) → Singapore (SIN)

Singapore Airlines’ Flight SQ23 between New York and Singapore holds the current title for the longest flight in the world. This route spans an astonishing 9,537 miles, taking approximately 18 hours and 50 minutes in the air. Operated by an Airbus A350-900ULR, this flight bypasses all intermediate stops and connects two of the world’s most important financial centers. From city to city, the aircraft flies over the North Pole and Pacific Ocean, minimizing travel time and maximizing efficiency. It redefines endurance travel while offering world-class service and comfort. For those asking what is the longest flight in the world, this is the one to beat.

• Longest current commercial flight by distance
  
  
• Connects the U.S. East Coast to Southeast Asia non-stop
  

2. Newark (EWR) → Singapore (SIN)

Sister to the JFK route, this Singapore Airlines flight from Newark to Singapore is nearly identical in both distance and duration. At roughly 9,535 miles and 18 hours and 45 minutes, it remains one of the longest passenger flights ever scheduled. It also operates using the Airbus A350-900ULR, engineered specifically for ultra-long-haul routes. For business travelers based in the New York/New Jersey region, this service is the most efficient way to reach Southeast Asia. The journey emphasizes Singapore’s position as one of the longest countries to travel to from North America, and the aircraft’s fuel economy ensures it remains sustainable.

• Among the longest commercial flights operated daily
  
  
• Offers a premium, non-stop bridge to Asia
  

3. Perth (PER) → London (LHR)

Qantas made headlines when it introduced a direct route between Perth and London—a journey that was once unimaginable without stopovers in the Middle East or Asia. Today, this flight covers around 9,009 miles and takes about 17 hours and 45 minutes. Operated with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, this flight was the first direct link between Australia and the U.K., two of the longest countries to travel to between each other. It also symbolizes the growing global demand for convenience and speed, with passengers eager to avoid long layovers.

• First direct link between Australia and the United Kingdom
  
  
• Eliminated traditional Kangaroo Route stopovers
  

4. Auckland (AKL) → Doha (DOH)

Qatar Airways connects New Zealand and the Middle East with a flight that stretches 9,032 miles and takes roughly 17 hours and 15 minutes. The airline operates this route with an Airbus A350-1000, known for its quiet cabin and enhanced passenger experience. This flight is essential for both tourism and trade, linking Oceania with a key Gulf business hub. It also places New Zealand high on the list of the longest countries to travel to, especially for those based in Europe, the Americas, or North Africa.

• Provides one of the longest East-West air links globally
  
  
• Operated by one of the world’s top-rated airlines
  

5. Dallas (DFW) → Melbourne (MEL)

Qantas connects the American South with Australia through this extensive route that covers 8,992 miles in approximately 17 hours and 35 minutes. It ranks among the longest flights in the world and reflects growing demand for U.S.–Australia direct service. Using the Boeing 787-9, the airline maximizes fuel efficiency while delivering high passenger comfort. This flight saves travelers hours by cutting out stopovers in Los Angeles or Asia, making it a vital link for both business and leisure travelers.

• Direct link between central U.S. and southeastern Australia
  
  
• Streamlines travel for corporate and tech passengers
  

6. Los Angeles (LAX) → Singapore (SIN)

This West Coast-to-Asia route offers another long-haul option for U.S. travelers heading to Southeast Asia. Clocking in at around 8,770 miles and approximately 17 hours and 50 minutes, this flight is consistently featured on lists of the longest flights in the world. Operated by Singapore Airlines with an A350-900, the route is prized for its smooth connections and premium experience. It allows access to one of the longest countries to travel to with the least amount of time wasted in transit.

• Efficient alternative for tech and finance passengers
  
  
• Popular with business-class travelers and long-term tourists
  

7. New York (JFK) → Auckland (AKL)

One of the most ambitious intercontinental routes, this Air New Zealand and Qantas flight covers about 8,828 miles in nearly 17 hours and 30 minutes. It’s one of the few direct links between the U.S. East Coast and Oceania, making it critical for both sides of the Pacific. The isolation of New Zealand makes it one of the longest countries to travel to, and this flight offers a direct pipeline into one of the world’s most stunning destinations.

• Bridges North America and the South Pacific in one leg
  
  
• Among the longest flights by both time and distance
  

8. Auckland (AKL) → Dubai (DXB)

Operated by Emirates, this long-haul spans approximately 8,824 miles and lasts about 17 hours and 10 minutes. The airline often uses the Airbus A380 for this route, offering passengers plenty of space, lounges, and top-tier in-flight entertainment. The connection between New Zealand and the UAE further exemplifies what makes these some of the longest countries to travel to, combining hemispheric distance with cultural and business significance.

• Popular with tourists and connecting Middle East and Oceania
  
  
• Operated by the largest commercial aircraft, the A380
  
  

9. San Francisco (SFO) → Bengaluru (BLR)

This Air India service covers around 8,701 miles and takes approximately 17 hours and 50 minutes, linking two tech giants: Silicon Valley and India’s IT capital. The route is vital for business and diaspora travelers, and Bengaluru’s distance from major U.S. cities places India high on the list of longest countries to travel to.

• Serves booming demand in U.S.–India tech corridor
  
  
• Supports India–U.S. tourism and business ties
  

10. Houston (IAH) → Sydney (SYD)

United Airlines' non-stop flight between Houston and Sydney spans 8,596 miles, lasting around 17 hours and 35 minutes. It connects the American South to Australia directly, making Sydney one of the longest countries to travel to from the U.S. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner’s advanced systems reduce fatigue and offer improved cabin humidity and air pressure.

• Provides one of the fastest ways to reach eastern Australia
  
  
• Serves both tourism and growing energy-sector connections

These Flights Redefine What Long-Haul Travel Really Means

The idea of boarding a plane for nearly 19 hours might have seemed impossible just a decade ago. But with advancements in aircraft technology and a global demand for faster, more direct travel, airlines are pushing the limits—connecting some of the longest countries to travel to with seamless, non-stop service. Whether you’re flying from New York to Singapore or Dallas to Melbourne, these routes save travelers valuable time and eliminate stressful layovers.

The longest flights in the world offer more than just distance—they offer innovation, convenience, and an unmatched travel experience. As airlines race toward launching even longer routes, the future of aviation is heading farther and faster than ever before. So next time you find yourself asking “what is the longest flight in the world?”, you’ll know exactly where to look—and maybe even be tempted to book it.

FAQ: Longest Flights in the World

What is the longest flight in the world right now?

The current longest flight in the world is Singapore Airlines Flight SQ23 from New York (JFK) to Singapore (SIN), covering 9,537 miles in approximately 18 hours and 50 minutes nonstop.

How long is the longest flight in the world?

The longest flights in the world range between 17 and 19 hours. Singapore to New York holds the record at just under 19 hours, while future routes like Sydney to London may reach 21 hours.

Which countries are the longest to travel to by plane?

Countries like Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and India are some of the longest countries to travel to from the U.S. or Europe, based on nonstop flight distances.

Are ultra-long flights harder on the body?

Yes, long flights can affect circulation, hydration, and sleep patterns. Airlines now offer better cabin pressure, lighting, and wellness kits to reduce fatigue and jet lag.