The world’s longest flight links America to Asia, with travellers confined to their seats for nearly 19 hours. Currently, Singapore Airlines holds the record for the world’s most extensive long-haul route, operating between New York’s JFK Airport and Singapore Changi.
This mammoth 9,537-mile trek boasts a scheduled flight time of 18 hours and 50 minutes, having been introduced by the carrier in 2018. The service utilises Singapore Airlines’ cutting-edge A350-900ULRs, aircraft capable of remaining airborne for more than 20 hours without refuelling. These planes achieve such endurance through an enhanced fuel system that boosts the aircraft’s total fuel capacity to an enormous 24,000 litres.
Nevertheless, the route isn’t readily available to all travellers, as Singapore Airlines doesn’t provide economy class seating on this service.
Instead, the airline features 67 Business Class seats alongside 94 Premium Economy Class seats. Premium Economy passengers benefit from additional legroom, footrests, and adjustable headrests.
Travellers can also utilise noise-cancelling headphones and WiFi throughout their journey. Business class customers experience ultimate privacy, with seats that transform into completely flat beds for comfortable rest during travel.
Singapore Airlines maintains that the A350-900ULR delivers passengers a “more comfortable travelling experience”. The aircraft boasts a range of premium features including elevated ceilings, expansive windows and specially engineered lighting systems to combat jet lag.
The carrier maintains that the aircraft’s innovative carbon composite construction also delivers enhanced cabin air quality.
Travellers seeking tickets will need deep pockets, as fares routinely reach well into five-figure sums. Singapore Airlines’ Chief Executive, Mr Goh Choon Phong, has previously stated that the fresh route represents the “fastest way” to journey between these two major metropolises.
He declared: “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, ultra-long-range Airbus A350-900ULR.
“The flights will offer our customers the fastest way to travel between the two cities – in great comfort, together with Singapore Airlines’ legendary service – and will help boost connectivity to and through the Singapore hub.”
