by SHEN Xiaoge

China Eastern Airlines will launch the world's longest commercial route on December 4, connecting Shanghai and Buenos Aires with a stop in Auckland. Operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, flight MU745 will cover about 20,000 kilometers with a total flight time of 25 hours 55 minutes, not including a 2-hour 25-minute layover in Auckland.

The carrier's booking platform shows economy fares start at 12,232 yuan (about US$1,770) and business class at 45,822 yuan (about US$6,450). The return flight MU746, starting on December 5, takes 29 hours with fares from 12,437 yuan in economy and 45,287 yuan in business. Tickets are also available on major travel platforms including Ctrip and Qunar.

The carrier secured fifth-freedom rights in Auckland, allowing it to carry passengers and cargo between New Zealand and Argentina. The route cuts travel time to South America by four to five hours compared with transits through Europe or North America and will strengthen trade and tourism ties. China Eastern also plans future links to São Paulo and Santiago.