The aviation landscape has been changing since the pandemic, including many ultra-long-haul routes being suspended. In this post, we share the current top 10 World’s longest non-stop flights in the world.
As airlines and aircraft manufacturers continue to innovate, ultra-long-haul flights have become an achievement of modern aviation, connecting cities separated by thousands of miles. The world’s longest flights are not only a testament to aircraft engineering but also showcase airlines’ efforts to provide seamless connectivity.
Here is a detailed list of the Top 10 Longest Flights in 2026, featuring route specifics, aircraft used, and unique aspects of each journey.
Top 10 Longest Flights in 2026
1. New York (JFK) – Singapore (SIN)
- Airline, Flight Number: Singapore Airlines SQ23
- Flight Distance: 15,349 km (9,537 miles)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 18 hours, 50 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR
Singapore Airlines (SQ)’ flagship route from New York’s JFK to Singapore Changi Airport continues to hold the title of the world’s longest flight in 2025. Operated using the Airbus A350-900ULR, this flight offers unmatched connectivity and flexibility.
Passengers on SQ23 enjoy a carefully designed premium cabin experience, including a two-class configuration with Premium Economy and Business Class. The A350-900ULR is specifically optimized for ultra-long-haul routes, featuring larger fuel tanks and improved aerodynamics, allowing it to cover an astounding 15,349 kilometers non-stop.
This route is highly favored by business travelers for its direct connectivity between the financial hubs of New York and Singapore. Despite its duration of nearly 19 hours, passengers praise the airline’s in-flight amenities, such as spacious seating, personalized service, and a diverse entertainment library.
2. Newark (EWR) – Singapore (SIN)
- Airline, Flight Number: Singapore Airlines SQ21
- Flight Distance: 15,344 km (9,534 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 18 hours, 45 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR
A close second to SQ23, Singapore Airlines (SQ) operates another ultra-long-haul flight connecting Newark Liberty International Airport to Singapore. This route, launched in 2018, remains a vital link for travelers on the U.S. East Coast heading to Southeast Asia.
The A350-900ULR’s state-of-the-art design ensures fuel efficiency, making such lengthy flights economically feasible. Onboard, passengers can enjoy reduced cabin noise, improved air quality, and adjustable LED lighting designed to combat jet lag. With nearly 19 hours of flight time, the airline emphasizes comfort, offering curated meal options and spacious seating.
3. Auckland (AKL) – Doha (DOH)
- Airline, Flight Number: Qatar Airways QR921
- Flight Distance: 14,535 km (9,032 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 15 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 777-200LR
Qatar Airways (QR) operates the world’s third-longest flight, connecting Auckland, New Zealand, to Doha, Qatar. Launched in 2017, this route reflects the airline’s commitment to bridging Oceania with the Middle East and beyond.
The Boeing 777-200LR, known for its extended range is the backbone of this route. Passengers are treated to Qatar Airways’ award-winning services, including the luxurious Business Class. The cabin design also features wider seats, quieter engines, and an advanced air filtration system, making the long journey more comfortable.
This route is popular among travelers connecting to Europe, Africa, and North America via Doha, thanks to Qatar Airways’ extensive global network.
4. Perth (PER) – London Heathrow (LHR)
- Airline, Flight Number: Qantas QF9
- Flight Distance: 14,499 km (9,009 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 45 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
Qantas (QF) made history in 2018 by launching the first non-stop flight between Australia and the United Kingdom. Operating between Perth and London Heathrow, this route represents the airline’s growing ambition to provide direct links between distant continents.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner powers this flight, offering a fuel-efficient and passenger-friendly solution for ultra-long-haul routes. With 236 seats across Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class, the cabin is designed to maximize comfort, including higher humidity levels and improved air circulation to reduce fatigue.
This route has been instrumental in testing the viability of Qantas’ ambitious Project Sunrise, which aims to connect Sydney and Melbourne directly to London in the near future.
5. Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) – Melbourne (MEL)
- Airline, Flight Number: Qantas QF22
- Flight Distance: 14,472 km (8,992 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 35 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
Launched in December 2022, this route connects the bustling commercial hub of Dallas/Fort Worth in the U.S. with Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. Operated by Qantas (QF), this flight caters to both business and leisure travelers, further highlighting the growing demand for direct connectivity between the U.S. and Australia.
The Boeing 787-9, known for its extended range makes this route feasible. Passengers benefit from Qantas’ premium inflight offerings, including curated Australian wines and regionally inspired meals.
6. Perth (PER) – Paris (CDG)
- Airline, Flight Number: Qantas QF33
- Flight Distance: 14,264 km (8,863 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 20 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
This new addition to Qantas (QF)’ ultra-long-haul network provides a direct link between Western Australia and Paris, the city of light. Qantas launched this route in mid-2024 as part of its ongoing efforts to expand non-stop flights connecting Australia and Europe.
7. New York (JFK) – Auckland (AKL)
- Airlines, Flight Numbers: Qantas QF4 / Air New Zealand NZ1
- Flight Distance: 14,207 km (8,828 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 30 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
This trans-Pacific route connects New York to Auckland, making it one of the longest direct flights in the world. Operated by both Qantas and Air New Zealand (NZ), it caters to increasing demand for direct travel between North America and Oceania.
Air New Zealand’s NZ1 service uses its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering passengers enhanced cabin comfort, including lie-flat Business Premier seats, Premium Economy, and Economy Skycouch options. Qantas’ QF4, introduced recently, adds competition on the route, offering its signature onboard experience, including regionally inspired menus and access to its acclaimed lounges in New York and Auckland.
This route also plays a strategic role in tourism, connecting two countries known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.
8. Auckland (AKL) – Dubai (DXB)
- Airline, Flight Number: Emirates EK449
- Flight Distance: 14,200 km (8,823 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 25 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A380-800
Emirates (EK) operates this route with its iconic Airbus A380 superjumbo, known for its luxury and spaciousness. Passengers traveling from Auckland to Dubai enjoy premium inflight amenities, including private suites in First Class, an onboard lounge for Business and First Class travelers, and generous seat pitch in Economy Class, alongside the newly introduced Premium Economy cabin.
This route acts as a vital gateway for New Zealanders connecting to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through Emirates’ expansive network. Its popularity stems not only from the direct connectivity but also from the airline’s ability to offer consistent service excellence, even on such a long-haul journey.
9. Shenzhen (SZX) – Mexico City (MEX)
- Airline, Flight Number: China Southern CZ8031
- Flight Distance: 14,147 km (8,791 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 16 hours, 20 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
This relatively new route by China Southern Airlines (CZ) links the manufacturing hub of Shenzhen with Mexico City, a key Latin American market. The Airbus A350-900 enables this flight with advanced fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels, ensuring a smooth journey for passengers.
Primarily aimed at business travelers and cargo movement, the route plays a significant role in strengthening trade relations between China and Mexico. Onboard, passengers enjoy modern amenities, including spacious seating arrangements, larger windows, and an advanced entertainment system.
10. Los Angeles (LAX) – Singapore (SIN)
- Airline, Flight Numbers: Singapore Airlines SQ37, SQ35
- Flight Distance: 14,114 km (8,770 mi)
- Scheduled Flight Time: 17 hours, 50 minutes
- Aircraft: Airbus A350-900ULR/A350-900
Singapore Airlines operates this route as one of its flagship ultra-long-haul services, connecting Los Angeles to Singapore non-stop. The Airbus A350 ensures optimal fuel efficiency and passenger comfort over the nearly 18-hour journey.
SQ37 and SQ35 flights are tailored for both leisure and business travelers, offering a premium inflight experience with Business Class and Premium Economy seating. Passengers can enjoy a menu curated by top chefs, high-speed Wi-Fi, and personalized entertainment options.
This route is a cornerstone of Singapore Airlines’ trans-Pacific operations, underlining its dominance in connecting Asia with the United States directly.
Long Range Aircraft
The success of ultra-long-haul flights depends on advanced aircraft that optimize fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and operational reliability. Here’s a look at the key aircraft powering these routes:
Airbus A350-900ULR
- Maximum Range: 18,000 km (9,700 nautical miles)
- Features: Advanced aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, and cabin comfort.
- Operator Highlights: Singapore Airlines dominates this segment with its direct flights from Singapore to New York.
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
- Maximum Range: 14,140 km (7,635 nautical miles)
- Features: Lightweight composite materials and lower fuel consumption.
- Operator Highlights: Qantas and Air New Zealand rely on the Dreamliner for routes connecting Oceania with Europe and North America.
Airbus A380-800
- Maximum Range: 15,200 km (8,200 nautical miles)
- Features: High passenger capacity and luxury amenities.
- Operator Highlights: Emirates operates this aircraft on some of the longest routes, like Auckland to Dubai.
Future Long-Haul Routes
Singapore Airlines may hold the title for the longest commercial flight today, but the record for the longest non-stop flight ever belongs to Air Tahiti Nui. In March 2020, the airline flew non-stop from Papeete, Tahiti, to Paris – a staggering 9,765-mile journey. This unprecedented feat was enabled by pandemic-related restrictions that temporarily removed the customary layover in Los Angeles.
Looking ahead, Qantas aims to set a new benchmark with its ambitious Project Sunrise, expected to launch in 2025. The airline plans to operate two groundbreaking non-stop routes: Sydney to London (10,573 miles) and Sydney to New York (9,950 miles). These ultra-long-haul flights will utilize specially configured Airbus A350-1000 aircraft tailored for extended operations.
The foundation for Project Sunrise was laid in 2019 when Qantas conducted trial flights using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. These test flights, including non-stop journeys from New York to Sydney and London to Sydney, lasted over 19 hours with a minimal payload of passengers and cargo to ensure optimal performance. The trials validated the technical and operational feasibility of such ultra-long-haul routes.
While Qantas leads this charge, Turkish Airlines is also exploring its own direct long-haul services. The carrier plans to launch a non-stop Istanbul–Sydney route (14,967 km) in 2026, utilizing its upcoming Airbus A350-1000 fleet. In the meantime, Turkish Airlines has introduced interim services, such as Istanbul–Melbourne (via Singapore) and Istanbul–Sydney (via Kuala Lumpur), to enhance connectivity to Australia.
These developments underline the aviation industry’s relentless drive to pioneer longer, more efficient routes. Leveraging advancements in aircraft technology, airlines are breaking barriers to connect cities separated by vast distances in ways once thought impossible.
Source: Flightradar24, GC Map
