The first successful airplane traveled only 120 feet. Since then, humans have increasingly pushed this boundary, manufacturing planes that can travel long distances. Let’s look at 15 of the longest non-stop flights in the world and some fascinating facts about them.

Johannesburg (JNB) to Atlanta (ATL) – 8,439 miles

Delta Air Lines operates the long-distance flight from Johannesburg (JNB) to Atlanta (ATL). As one of the few direct routes from Sub-Saharan Africa to North America, it has fostered international travel and trade between the two continents.

San Francisco (SFO) to Singapore (SIN) – 8,446 miles

The flight between San Francisco and Singapore connects these two critical business hubs. Additionally, it highlights Singapore Airlines’ commitment to maintaining a high level of service and operational efficiency.

Houston Doha (DOH) to Los Angeles (LAX) – 8,743 miles

Qatar Airlines operates flights from Houston (IAH) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Doha (DOH). This route, including a Doha layover, takes about 19-20 hours. The airline’s exceptional service combines luxurious amenities, privacy, and comfort to spice up the long-haul experience.

New York (JFK) to Manila (MNL) – 8,520 miles

Flights on this route began in the early 2000s, with various airlines offering nonstop services to facilitate direct travel between the two regions. This flight traverses multiple time zones and diverse landscapes, including the Arctic Circle, making it a unique journey.

Houston (IAH) to Sydney (SYD) – 8,596 miles

United Airlines operates flights between these two cities using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner designed for comfort on ultra-long-haul journeys. Notably, the aircraft features advanced aerodynamics, better cabin pressure, and higher humidity levels to reduce passenger fatigue.

Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL) – 8,600 miles

The flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne takes approximately 17 hours, depending on weather conditions and the flight path. By crossing the International Date Line, this flight creates an intriguing temporal shift, as travelers skip a day and arrive two calendar days later.

San Francisco (SFO) to Bengaluru (BLR) – 8,700 miles

Flown by Air India, this route connects two leading technology hubs, Silicon Valley and India’s Silicon Plateau. It shows the growing importance of India’s tech industry on the global stage and allows for quick access between major technology companies in both regions.

Los Angeles (LAX) to Singapore (SIN) – 8,770 miles

Flying from Los Angeles to Singapore will take about 17 hours and 30 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Passengers experience the advanced technology and comfort of modern long-haul aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Auckland (AKL) to New York (JFK) – 8,828 miles

As one of the longest non-stop flights in the world, flying from Auckland (AKL) to New York (JFK) lasts around 16 hours. On board a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, passengers get captivating aerial views of the Pacific Ocean and the United States.

Shenzhen (SZX) to Mexico City (MEX) – 8,873 miles

This unique route, operated by China Southern Airlines, is the only flight on this list featuring a Chinese carrier. It connects Shenzhen, a major tech hub, with Mexico City, one of Latin America’s largest cities, and is flown by the Airbus A350.

Dubai (DXB) to Auckland (AKL) – 8,800 miles

Since its launch in 2016, the long-distance flight from Dubai (DXB) to Auckland (AKL) represents Emirates’ commitment to linking key international hubs across continents. This fosters trade and tourism between the Middle East and New Zealand.

Auckland (AKL) to Doha (DOH) – 9,032 miles

Operated by Qatar Airways, the flight from Auckland to Doha covers 9,032 miles (14,535 km) and takes approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes. This route connects New Zealand with the Middle East, providing travelers with a link to Europe.

London (LHR) to Perth (PER) – 9,009 miles

The Qantas Airways flight from London Heathrow to Perth is particularly significant as it connects the UK directly to Australia. Aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 used on this route feature advanced aerodynamics and a quieter cabin.

Newark (EWR) to Singapore (SIN) – 9,535 miles

Slightly shorter than its New York counterpart, the Newark to Singapore route takes about 18 hours and 30 minutes. The Airbus A350-900 used for this route is designed for long-haul travel and offers passengers a comfortable experience with modern amenities.

New York (JFK) to Singapore (SIN) – 9,537 miles

Covering 9,537 miles (15,332 km), the flight from JFK in New York, to Singapore Changi Airport is the longest non-stop flight in the world. This flight is operated by Singapore Airlines and takes around 18 hours and 40 minutes.