Some people may enjoy air travel, but for others, it is a true passion. If you fall into the latter category and are looking to spend as much time in the air as possible, consider booking the longest flight currently in operation: a Singapore Airlines flight from New York City to Singapore, a journey of 9,537 miles.
However, the longest nonstop commercial flight ever recorded took place in March 2020, when Air Tahiti Nui flew nonstop from Papeete, Tahiti to Paris, a distance of 9,765 miles. This flight was a one-time occurrence due to pandemic-related travel restrictions that required the airline to bypass its usual stopover in Los Angeles.
If you want to experience a long-haul flight but don’t necessarily need to set any world records, there are still many options available. The following list features the top 10 longest flights currently in operation, ranked according to distance. Note that flight times can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the season, weather, and airport conditions at different times of the year.
Here are the top 10 longest flights in the world:
1. New York City (JFK) – Singapore (SIN)
Airline: Singapore Airlines
Distance: 9,537 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 18 hours, 30 minutes
2. Singapore (SIN) – Newark (EWR)
Airline: Singapore Airlines
Distance: 9,523 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 18 hours, 30 minutes
3. Perth (PER) – London (LHR)
Airline: Qantas
Distance: 9,009 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 20 minutes
4. Melbourne (MEL) – Dallas (DFW)
Airline: Qantas
Distance: 8,992 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours 35 minutes
5. Auckland (AKL) – New York (JFK)
Airline: Air New Zealand
Distance: 8,828 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 50 minutes
6. Dubai (DXB) – Auckland (AKL
Airline: Emirates
Distance: 8,824 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 5 minutes
7. Singapore (SIN) – Los Angeles (LAX)
Airline: Singapore Airlines
Distance: 8,770 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 10 minutes
8. Bangalore (BLR) – San Francisco (SFO)
Airline: Air India
Distance: 8,701 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 40 minutes
9. Houston (IAH) – Sydney (SYD)
Airline: United Airlines
Distance: 8,596 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 17 hours, 35 minutes
10. Sydney (SYD) – Dallas (DFW)
Airline: Qantas
Distance: 8,576 miles
Estimated Flight Time: 15 hours and 20 minutes
How to prepare for a long flight?
Long flights can be both exciting and challenging, as they offer the opportunity to travel great distances and visit new and exotic destinations, but can also be tiring and require careful preparation. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of long flights, including the longest flights currently in operation, how to prepare for a long flight, and ways to make the most of your time in the air.
Preparing for a Long Flight
If you are planning to take a long flight, it is important to properly prepare in order to make the most of your time in the air. Here are a few tips to help you get ready:
- Pack wisely: Bring everything you need for the flight, including comfortable clothing, a neck pillow, earplugs, and any necessary medications. It is also a good idea to pack some snacks in case the in-flight meal options are not to your liking.
- Stay hydrated: It is important to stay hydrated during long flights, as the dry cabin air can lead to dehydration. Bring a water bottle and ask the flight attendants for refills.
- Get some rest: Try to get some sleep on the plane to help you adjust to the time difference at your destination. Consider booking a seat with extra legroom or upgrading to a premium class to make your flight more comfortable.
- Stay active: Long flights can be sedentary, so it is important to move around and stretch your legs as much as possible. Walk up and down the aisle, do some in-seat exercises, or take a walk around the cabin when possible.
Making the Most of Your Time in the Air
While long flights can be tiring, there are also many ways to make the most of your time in the air. Here are a few ideas:
- Watch a movie or TV show: Many long-haul flights offer in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, and games. Take advantage of these options to pass the time.
- Read a book: A long flight is a great opportunity to catch up on your reading. Bring a good book or magazine to keep you entertained.
- Listen to music: Bring a pair of noise-cancelling headphones and listen to your favorite tunes to help you relax and pass the time.
- Chat with your seatmate: If you are traveling with a companion, take the opportunity to catch up and have a good conversation. If you are flying solo, consider striking up a conversation with your seatmate. You never know who you might meet or what interesting stories you might hear.
In conclusion, long flights can be both exciting and challenging, but with proper preparation and a positive attitude, they can also be a great opportunity to explore the world and make new connections. Whether you are flying for business or pleasure, make the most of your time in the air and enjoy the journey.
