While most long-haul flights last between six to 15 hours, there are a select few that stretch even further into the category of “super long-haul” flights.
The longest of these journeys takes passengers on a nearly 19-hour adventure, currently holding the title for the world’s longest nonstop flight.
This ultra-long-haul route operates between New York‘s JFK Airport and Singapore‘s Changi Airport and counts with an added perk when it comes to the seating plan.
Travellers board a Singapore Airlines Airbus A350 for a remarkable journey covering around 9,537 miles.
The flight is scheduled to take 18 hours and 50 minutes, with the return trip from Singapore to New York being just 10 minutes shorter at 18 hours and 40 minutes.
It also has an unusual layout that is arguably a huge plus, because in order to maximise space and profitability, this aircraft carries fewer passengers compared to typical flights, and notably lacks an economy class.
Instead, most of the cabin is dedicated to business class seating, and at the rear of the plane, there is a Premium Economy section, offering more comfort and amenities than standard economy.
Some of the additional features of this more expensive ticket include additional legroom, footrests, adjustable headrests, noise-cancelling headphones, and WiFi.
Business class on this flight is designed with privacy and comfort in mind, featuring a 1-2-1 seating arrangement and fully flat beds, ensuring a restful journey.
Passengers in business class can even pre-select their meals up to 24 hours in advance, with high-end options like slow-roasted beef fillet, grilled shrimp and scallops, and prawn-pork dumpling noodle soup.
Travel blogger GMO on the GO shared his experience of the flight on YouTube Shorts, where he sat in Premium Economy.
He praised the airline’s extensive entertainment options and excellent service, noting that Singapore Airlines’ staff were exceptional in ensuring passenger comfort throughout the nearly 19-hour flight.
Ticket prices for this ultra-long-haul journey vary, sometimes reaching five figures depending on the season and the cabin class.
However, the benefit of such a lengthy flight is the convenience of bypassing layovers, giving travellers more time to enjoy their destination.