China Eastern Airlines made headlines on June 18, 2025, as they unveiled plans for an exciting new route that will connect the bustling metropolis of Shanghai to the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, with a captivating stopover in Auckland, New Zealand. This remarkable Trans-Pacific journey is scheduled to kick off in December 2025, building upon the success of China Eastern's longstanding Shanghai-Auckland service that has been in operation for over ten years.

Excitingly, the route to Argentina will see the introduction of a larger aircraft, the Boeing 777-300ER, featuring 316 seats. Notably, this new service will mark the airline's decision to opt for a Pacific routing to Buenos Aires, distinguishing it as the longest route in the world with a single intermediate stop, covering nearly 19,000 kilometers.

What sets this route apart is not only its impressive length but also its significance in bridging the gap between Argentina and the Asia-Pacific region. The direct connection from Auckland to Buenos Aires will stand out as the sole Trans-Pacific link between these regions, offering a vital air bridge in the southern hemisphere.

With only a couple of other airlines planning to offer scheduled flights connecting South America to New Zealand and Australia by the end of 2025, China Eastern's move to enhance connectivity is commendable. Auckland Airport Chief Executive Carrie Hurihanganui expressed enthusiasm for the restored connectivity this new service will bring to the region, especially as air travel between South America and New Zealand still lags at around half of pre-COVID levels.

Pilotcenter.net News is thrilled to see China Eastern Airlines pioneering this significant route, offering travelers a seamless journey that spans continents and cultures, creating invaluable connections across the globe.