The world’s longest direct flight: no economy class, 19 hours and almost 10,000 miles
Only passengers who pay for premium or business class will be able to enjoy the world's longest non-stop flight.
Singapore Airlines operates the longest direct route in the world thanks to the new ultra-long-range aircraft developed by Airbus. The Airbus A350-900ULR is designed to handle extremely long flights through a modified fuel system. This upgrade allows the aircraft to store up to 6,340 gallons (24,000 liters) of fuel, enough to complete a non-stop route from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Changi Airport.
The journey covers more than 9,500 miles and lasts approximately 18 hours and 50 minutes. The airline introduced the route in 2018 after acquiring the Airbus A350-900ULR, which can operate flights of up to 20 hours without stops. However, the flight is not accessible to everyone. The Asian carrier offers only business class and premium economy seats on this route, meaning travelers looking for low-cost fares are left out.
In Premium Economy, passengers on this direct route enjoy extra legroom, footrests, and adjustable headrests. In total, the aircraft features 67 business class seats and 94 premium economy seats. The airline also provides noise-canceling headphones and onboard Wi-Fi throughout the nearly 19-hour flight. In business class, passengers benefit from maximum privacy, with seats that convert into fully flat beds to improve rest during the journey between Asia and America.
Comfort and efficiency
Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines, stated that the route offered by the airline is “the fastest way” to travel between the two cities. However, he acknowledged that only wealthier travelers can typically afford the experience.
“Singapore Airlines has always taken pride in pushing the boundaries to provide the best possible travel convenience for our customers, and we are pleased to be leading the way with these new non-stop flights using the latest-technology,” the airline’s CEO said in 2018 announcement for the launch of the route.
Phong expects the direct flight between New York City and Singapore to “help boost connectivity to and through the Singapore hub.” He added, that these flights “offer our customers the fastest way to travel between the two cities – in great comfort, together with Singapore Airlines’ legendary service.”
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