Find Out the Longest Nonstop Flights in the World

Would you want to sit in a metal tube for nearly 19 hours straight? Most people would probably say no. But you know what? Many have endured such long flights before. The aviation industry is really pushing boundaries like never before. Airlines are now operating flights to destinations that would have been impossible just decades ago.

Such journeys connect to distant continents without a single layover in between, testing both human endurance and aircraft technology. This blog will take a closer look at some of the longest nonstop flights in the world.

What Makes the Longest Nonstop Flights in the World So Special?

The longest nonstop flights show just how far airplanes and people can go. These flights aren’t comparable to your usual trips. Such flights cover long journeys that cross many time zones and even entire continents.

The Current Record Holder

Singapore Airlines Flight SQ23 from New York JFK to Singapore Changi Airport holds the title as the world’s longest commercial flight, covering 9,537 miles and taking approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes. This route has been operating since 2020 and represents the absolute peak of the longest commercial flight operations.

Wondering Why These Flights Exist?

Airlines did not come up with these ultra-long routes just to show off. They serve several practical purposes.

• Time efficiency – No layovers means faster total travel time.
• Convenience – Skip the hassle of connecting flights.
• Business demand – Major financial centers need direct connections.
• Competitive advantage – Airlines differentiate themselves with unique routes.

The Top 10 Longest Nonstop Flights in the World

Let’s begin the counting of the top 10 longest nonstop flights in the world.

Singapore Airlines: New York JFK to Singapore (SQ23)

• Distance: 9,537 miles
• Flight time: 18 hours 40 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR

This flight is the clear leader when it comes to long-distance air travel. The plane is specially designed with only two types of seats: 67 business class seats and 94 premium economy seats. It doesn’t have any first class or regular economy seats, making the cabin more comfortable and focused on premium passengers.

Singapore Airlines: Singapore to New York JFK (SQ24)

• Distance: 9,537 miles
• Flight time: 18 hours 50 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR

The return journey is actually slightly longer due to prevailing winds and routing.

Qantas: Perth to London Heathrow (QF9)

• Distance: 9,009 miles
• Flight time: 17 hours 20 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
  

Air New Zealand: Auckland to New York JFK (NZ2)

• Distance: 8,828 miles
• Flight time: 17 hours 40 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
  

Singapore Airlines: Singapore to Los Angeles (SQ37)

• Distance: 8,770 miles
• Flight time: 17 hours 50 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR
  

United Airlines: San Francisco to Singapore (UA1)

• Distance: 8,446 miles
• Flight time: 17 hours 35 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
  

Philippine Airlines: Manila to New York JFK (PR127)

• Distance: 8,520 miles
• Flight time: 16 hours 45 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
  

Qantas: Melbourne to Dallas (QF7)

• Distance: 8,992 miles
• Flight time: 17 hours 20 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
  

Emirates: Dubai to Los Angeles (EK215)

• Distance: 8,339 miles
• Flight time: 16 hours 20 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A380-800
  

Cathay Pacific: Hong Kong to New York JFK (CX840)

• Distance: 8,072 miles
• Flight time: 16 hours 5 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A350-1000

Aircraft That Make These Journeys Possible

Not every plane can handle these marathon flights. The largest airplane in the world for passenger service includes several models specifically designed for ultra-long-range operations.

Introducing…the champion of long-haul flights:

Airbus A350-900ULR (Ultra Long Range)

• Specifically designed for routes over 9,000 miles.
• Advanced fuel efficiency.
• Enhanced passenger comfort features.
• Used by Singapore Airlines for their record-breaking routes.

Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

• Made with new, lighter materials that make it stronger and more efficient.
• The air inside the cabin is kept at a more comfortable pressure.
• Higher humidity in the cabin helps you feel less dry during the flight.
• These features help reduce jet lag, so you feel better after a long trip.

Airbus A350-1000

Qantas is planning to use special Airbus A350-1000s for their “Project Sunrise” concept, with nonstop flights from Melbourne and Sydney to London and New York expected to launch in the first half of 2027.

Popular Ultra-Long Routes and Their Flight Times

Trans-Pacific Giants

Flying Time from LA to New York: While not international, this domestic route covers a significant distance. A typical New York LA flight duration ranges from 5 to 6 hours, depending on winds and routing.

Flying Time New York to Singapore: The JFK to Singapore route covers over 9,532 miles and takes approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes, making it what is the longest flight in the world by distance.

Trans-Atlantic Classics

New York to London: This popular route typically takes 6-7 hours eastbound and 7-8 hours westbound. While not among the longest flights globally, it remains one of the busiest international routes.

The World’s Longest Domestic Flight

Australia claims the title for the world’s longest domestic flight with several routes:

Qantas QF6: Sydney to Perth

• Distance: 2,130 miles
• Flight time: 5 hours 5 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A330-300

This route crosses the entire Australian continent, making it longer than many international flights in Europe or Asia.

United Airlines: Newark to Honolulu

• Distance: 4,962 miles
• Flight time: 11 hours 30 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9

While technically domestic (both cities are in the United States), this flight spans the Pacific Ocean and rivals many international routes in length.

The Passenger Experience on Ultra-Long Flights

Flying for almost 19 hours calls for special attention to passenger comfort and well-being.

Cabin Configuration Matters

Airlines running the world’s longest nonstop flights opt for premium setups:

• More premium seats – Extra business and first-class choices.
• Better economy options – Premium economy becomes the norm.
• No basic economy – Some flights cut out the standard economy.
• More legroom – Extra space throughout the cabin.

Tackling Jet Lag and Tiredness

• Lighting: New planes use LED lights that copy natural day-night cycles, helping flyers adjust to new time zones. 
• Air Quality: Better air filters and more moisture in the air cut down on the usual “plane air” tiredness.
• Food Service: Several meals served throughout the trip help keep normal eating habits.

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