Who wants to take a direct 29-hour flight?

How would you handle a 29-hour flight on the same plane?

China Eastern Airlines (MU) will soon give you the chance to find out when it launches what will be the world’s longest direct passenger flight, from Shanghai to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The new route takes off on December 4, 2025, and although a direct service, it will features a layover in Auckland, with passengers remaining on the same aircraft, travel new hub Travel Mole reports.

Passengers traveling between Shanghai and Buenos Aires will apparently be expected to remain on board the aircraft during the stopover.

The service will operate twice weekly, outbound from Shanghai on Mondays and Thursdays, and returning from Buenos Aires on Tuesdays and Fridays.

China Eastern will offer a three-class service of first, business, and economy (which might be quite an ordeal). It plans to operate the service using a Boeing 777-300.

The flight be be completed in 25 1/2 hours with favourable winds, but could last up to 29 hours.  

Opening up Suzhou to tourists

Shanghai is a global tourism magnet, while neighbouring Suzhou is much less well known. 

That is why China Eastern Airlines has partnered with Suzhou city to launch the "Suzhou Pass" Co-Branded Card, exclusively available when booking international flights to China through the airline's official website.

Suzhou and Shanghai, two of eastern China's most beautiful cities, are just a short train ride apart. Suzhou city is known for its natural landscape, rich cultural heritage, and modern urban spaces.

The Co-Branded Card is the official benefits programme that provides travellers with access to Suzhou's cultural institutions and exclusive benefits to memorable experiences.

Specifically, it offers free access to Suzhou classical gardens including Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, Lion Grove and a total of 14 renowned scenic spots across the city. 

Travellers can also access discounts on over 100 restaurants and hotels and get special prices for events and on public transport.

The tap-and-pay Co-Branded Card allows travellers to pay across multiple platforms. 

Travellers can book flights from overseas to Shanghai via the China Eastern Airlines official website, app or WeChat mini-programs by selecting the "Suzhou Pass Premium Product" package, which includes both the flight ticket and "Suzhou Pass" Co-Branded Card in a single order. 

Once in China, visitors can easily collect their physical card at either Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) Terminal 1 or the Suzhou City Terminal.

See https://pass.jsjfsz.com/suzhoupass/v1/#/