How Far Can You Fly? Longest and Shortest Flights in the World

Have you ever boarded a flight and barely had time to settle into your seat before landing? Or maybe you’ve been on a plane for so long that you forgot what standing felt like? Air travel is full of extremes, and nowhere is this more fascinating than in the longest and shortest flights in the world. From jaw-dropping marathon journeys across continents to blink-and-you-miss-it hops between islands, the sky holds some truly remarkable records. Get the best deals on flight tickets and explore your dream destinations on a budget – no matter how far or near they are.

In this blog, we’ll take off into the world of aviation extremes – where time, distance, and geography intersect to create the longest and shortest flights in the world. Buckle up!

Shortest Flight Routes in the World
Longest Flight Routes in the World
From Seconds to Sunrises – The Wonders of Flight
FAQs- From Minutes to Marathons: The Longest and Shortest Flights in the World
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Shortest Flight Routes in the World

1. Westray to Papa Westray (Scotland) – The World’s Shortest Flight

People Walking Toward the Airplane
Image Credit: Radubradu/Pexels

Topping the list of the shortest flights in the world is the iconic route between Westray and Papa Westray, two islands in Scotland’s Orkney archipelago. This commercial flight covers a jaw-dropping distance of just 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles).

On a good weather day with favorable winds, the entire flight lasts under 60 seconds – shorter than most car rides to the airport! It remains the world’s shortest commercial flight and an aviation marvel in its own right. With UK visa online services now available, exploring unique experiences like this in the United Kingdom is more convenient than ever.

2. Karpathos to Kasos (Greece)

Pigadia, Karpathos Greece
Image Credit: Michael Mitrakos/Unsplash

This short domestic route in Greece connects the neighboring islands of Karpathos and Kasos in the southeastern Aegean Sea. The flight spans just 19kilometers (12 miles) and typically lasts around 5 minutes. Though brief, it saves passengers a long and often unpredictable ferry ride.

3. San Pedro to Caye Caulker (Belize)

If you’re visiting Belize, don’t miss the scenic island-hopping flight from San Pedro to Caye Caulker. This picturesque route lasts around 8 minutes and covers about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles). Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and coral reefs below. It’s not just the quickest way to get around – it’s also one of the most beautiful.

4. Sint Maarten to Anguilla (Caribbean)

This short international flight between Sint Maarten and Anguilla is another Caribbean gem. The flight covers 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) and takes 8 to 10 minutes in the air. Though boats are also available, the flight is popular for travelers looking to avoid long queues and enjoy a fast, scenic aerial view.

It’s one of the shortest international commercial flights in the world. Looking for the best flight views? Check out these Top 7 Scenic Flights From Destinations Around The World.

5. Caye Chapel to Belize City (Belize)

Another Belizean short-haul wonder, the flight from Caye Chapel to Belize City is often used by resort guests and business travelers. It spans only 13 kilometers (8 miles) and lasts 5 to 6 minutes. While the journey is quick, it plays an important role in connecting this private island resort to the rest of the country.

6. Kinshasa to Brazzaville (Congo) – Shortest International Capital-to-Capital Flight

One of the most fascinating short international flights runs between the capital cities of the Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) and the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville). It is separated by the Congo River, these two cities are barely 26 kilometers (16 miles) apart. The flight takes just 13 to 15 minutes.

Discover the joy of effortless travel through hotel booking at best rates and handpicked all-inclusive tour packages.

Longest Flight Routes in the World

1. Singapore to New York (JFK) – The World’s Longest Commercial Flight

Rain forest Jewel Changi Airport Singapore — Rain Forest Jewel Changi Airport Singapore
Image Editorial Credit: Kowshi .L/Shutterstock

At the very top of the list of the longest flights in the world is a flight operating non-stop between Singapore Changi Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Covering a whopping 15,349 kilometers (9,537 miles), this flight takes about 18 hours and 40 minutes, making it the longest flight in the world by time.

2. Perth to London (UK)

Heathrow Airport, London
Image Editorial Credit: Craig Russell/Shutterstock

The route covers approximately 14,498 kilometers (9,009 miles) and takes about 17 hours and 20 minutes. This flight marked a significant milestone in aviation history and helped reduce travel times between the two countries by eliminating the need for connecting stops in Asia or the Middle East

3. Dallas/Fort Worth to Melbourne (Australia)

This ultra-long route connects Dallas/Fort Worth in the United States to Melbourne, Australia. Covering 14,472 kilometers (8,991 miles), the flight takes about 17 hours and 15 minutes. The route allows for convenient access between the southern U.S. and southeastern Australia, serving both business and leisure travelers.

To dig deeper more on the longest flights, Tour The Skies With The Top 12 Longest Flights In The World and discover the most extreme routes aviation has to offer.

4. Dubai to Auckland (New Zealand)

Welcome Sign Greeting Tourists in Many Languages at Auckland International Airport
Image Editorial Credit: Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

Flight from Dubai to Auckland, stretching 14,200 kilometers (8,824 miles) and clocking in at about 17 hours. The journey spans across much of the Indian Ocean and Southern Hemisphere and was, at one time, the longest flight in the world when it launched in 2016.

5. Bangalore to San Francisco – Longest Flight from India

For Indian travelers, the Bangalore to San Francisco route is the longest flight in the world from India. Covering approximately 13,993 kilometers (8,700 miles), the flight takes around 16 to 17 hours, depending on the direction and wind. If you’re planning a trip to the U.S., now is a great time to find cheap flights to San Francisco and enjoy this incredible long-haul journey in comfort without breaking the bank.

From Seconds to Sunrises – The Wonders of Flight

The world of aviation is full of extremes, and the longest and shortest flights in the world highlight just how far – and how fast – we can travel today. Whether it’s a 60-second connection or an 18-hour odyssey, every flight tells a story of human ambition, connectivity, and the relentless desire to bridge distances.

FAQs- From Minutes to Marathons: The Longest and Shortest Flights in the World

What is the shortest flight in the world?
The world’s shortest commercial flight operates between Westray and Papa Westray, two remote islands in Scotland’s Orkney archipelago. This flight, run by Loganair, covers a distance of just 2.7 kilometers and can be completed in as little as 57 seconds under favorable wind conditions.

What is the longest flight in the world?
The longest flight in the world is currently Singapore Airlines Flight SQ23, which connects Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York. This ultra-long-haul journey covers approximately 15,349 kilometers and takes about 18 hours and 40 minutes.

Is a 32-hour flight possible?
As of now, no commercial airline operates a direct flight lasting 32 hours. The current maximum duration for non-stop commercial flights hovers around 19 hours.

What is the longest continuous flight in the world?
The longest continuous (non-stop) flight currently in service is again Singapore Airlines Flight SQ23 from Singapore to New York (JFK). With a flight duration of nearly 19 hours, it holds the record for the longest uninterrupted commercial passenger flight in the world.

What flight lasts 57 seconds?
The flight between Westray and Papa Westray in Scotland is the one that lasts just 57 seconds, making it the shortest scheduled commercial flight on record. Depending on weather conditions and wind speed, the flight time may stretch slightly beyond a minute, but it is commonly completed in under a minute.

Can pilots fly over 1,000 hours?
Commercial airline pilots are not permitted to fly more than 1,000 actual flight hours in any calendar year, as per regulations set by aviation authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States. These rules exist to ensure pilot health, rest, and safety.

Which is the longest flight in India?
The longest flight from India is Air India’s non-stop service between Bengaluru (Bangalore) and San Francisco. Covering a distance of nearly 14,000 kilometers, the flight duration typically ranges from 16 to 17 hours and often takes a polar route over the North Pole. This makes it not only the longest flight from India but also one of the most unique in terms of its path and endurance.

What is the biggest airport in the world?
In terms of area, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is the largest airport in the world. Spanning an incredible 776 square kilometers, it is larger than many cities and even some countries.

What is the longest flight without landing?
The longest flight without a landing stop is again Singapore Airlines Flight SQ23 from Singapore to New York. Operating with a non-stop service, this flight lasts nearly 19 hours and covers over 15,000 kilometers without touching down anywhere in between.

If You Are Curious, Read More:

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Whispers from the Cockpit: What Pilots Wish Passengers Knew
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