Live updates on the world’s longest flight: We’ve just landed

Singapore Airlines’ historic inaugural nonstop flight from Singapore to New York has touched down after over 17 hours in the sky.

Throughout this 16,700 km journey into aviation history, I’ve been onboard, sharing live updates of my experience.

Continue reading for a detailed, hour-by-hour account of what it’s been like aboard the brand-new Airbus A350-900URL, a next-gen aircraft that will revolutionize long-haul flights.

WE’VE ARRIVED:

SQ22 has landed at Newark Liberty International Airport. The journey took us 17 hours and 25 minutes, give or take. Welcome to New York!

Hour 16-17:

It’s time to fasten your seatbelt. We’re preparing for final approach.

The captain informs us we’re nearing the top of our descent.

Here’s a photo snapped just before the cabin was readied for landing. The crew still looks as polished as when we first took off.

I’ve been answering questions live via LINE.

Here are a few of the Q&A highlights:

Q: Tony: How does this compare to the Dreamliner 787?

A: This aircraft is significantly larger than the Dreamliner. We’re carrying only 161 passengers due to the distance and economic factors, so there’s no economy class in the rear. Typically, a plane like this would hold over 320 passengers, as it would include a larger economy section.

Both the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 are primarily made from composite materials rather than traditional metals. They’re equipped with advanced engines that boost fuel efficiency.

To me, the 787 feels like a sports car – smaller and more agile. The A350, on the other hand, reminds me of a grand touring car: plenty of space and an incredibly smooth ride. Both aircraft are truly remarkable.

Want to tell them apart? Check out the cockpit windows. The 787 has four distinct windows that give it a futuristic look. The A350 features a sleek, connected window design, with black trim that makes it look like a stylish pair of sunglasses. You won’t confuse the two.

The wing tips are another giveaway. The 787 has a sporty, swept-back wing design, while the A350 has a unique blended winglet that twists at the tip. It’s easy to spot either plane from a distance.

Another distinction: The 787 engine nacelles feature chevrons on the back, designed to reduce noise and enhance fuel efficiency.

Q: Arya asks: Any issues so far?

A: Arya, this is Singapore Airlines – they go above and beyond more than any other airline to perfect the flying experience.

The flight has gone smoothly without a hitch. Food and drinks are available throughout. As for the bed – I’m still getting used to sleeping at an angle, but this has been Singapore’s business class setup for years.

The staff is flawless. It’s incredible how much attention they give to every little detail.

Even after 17 hours with just 4 hours of rest, they’ve stayed upbeat and helpful. I’m not sure how SQ manages to train them so consistently well.

Other global airlines could certainly learn a lot from the techniques employed by Singapore Airlines.

Q: Ryan asks: Have you spotted any differences in the cabin compared to other Singapore Airlines long-haul flights?

A: There aren't any obvious differences. The pillows and bedding are the same as on other long-haul flights. The menu features the new Canyon Ranch healthy options.

Q: Rizki asks: Is there an emergency plan in place if the plane needs additional fuel?

A: I put that question to the Captain. Modern flight planning is extremely advanced. They know exactly how the winds and weather will impact the route and they plan meticulously for the aircraft’s weight and fuel needs.

The data shows that the fuel usage is exactly as planned. That said, fuel monitoring is critical on every flight. And yes, there are plenty of locations where we could make a stop and refuel if necessary.

Unless there’s an unexpected fuel leak, the pilots would never let a situation escalate to the point of a fuel emergency.

Q: Kepa: How many meals do you get (including snacks)?

A: Well, I had the post-takeoff meal (actually, I tried all three options – see below for my review). Then I had some late-night ice cream. A cup of hot chocolate and a biscuit before going to sleep. At hour nine, I enjoyed a full meal with chicken rice. I snacked on a few dried mango slices from the cart, and now I’m sipping on a caffe latte with some shortbread biscuits.

I’ve managed about three hours of sleep, and now it’s time to get up and swap out of my pajamas.

Interestingly, Singapore Airlines only provides PJs in first class. I’m surprised they didn’t make an exception for this flight and offer sleepwear.

Anyway, I’m dressed, teeth brushed, and ready to answer your questions.

We’re currently flying over the Great Lakes, crossing from Canada into the US.

Hour 13-15:

Devoured my meal. We’re now just five hours from New York.

I’m going to try to catch a bit more sleep before we land.

I’ll be on “Quest Means Business” this Friday.

I’ll be totally wiped out!

Hour 12:

With six hours left, they’ve begun serving the main meal in business class. I’ve got to admit, their meal timing feels a bit off to me.

They’ve woken up the cabin to serve dinner. So, when that’s over, will you still want to sleep?

I would have expected them to serve it closer to landing.

On Qantas’ Perth to London flight, the first meal was served 3-4 hours in, so passengers could sleep longer and enjoy a late meal before landing.

Their timing seemed more logical compared to Singapore Airlines’ approach.

Richard Neo, the food and beverage manager, shared that they experimented with meal timings on the SIN/SFO route, which is only slightly shorter.

Passengers preferred having their second meal about eight hours after the first one.

I suppose the key difference with Qantas is that they serve the first meal later, which pushes all subsequent meals back.

Interesting. I still believe Singapore Airlines' approach results in less sleep time overall.

We’ve just flown over Anchorage, Alaska, and there’s a crying baby in business class.

Poor little one has been so well-behaved up until now. The mother is doing her best to calm the baby.

Ah, well.

Any seasoned business traveler will tell you: sleep becomes a serious obsession on the road. The old saying holds true: “Eat, sleep, and use the bathroom when you can, not when you want to – you never know when you’ll get another chance!”

Hour 11:

As for the cabin crew, there are 13 of them on board.

If the flight lasts under 19 hours, they get four hours of rest. For flights longer than 19 hours, they’re entitled to five hours of rest, which they take in intervals that they coordinate among themselves.

The cabin crew sleeps in bunk beds tucked away in the ceiling space at the back of the plane. Yes, really.

They rest in comfortable beds situated above the passengers.

(Several airlines have considered opening up that space for passenger beds.)

Hennie Chin used to work on the old A340-500 flights to New York. She told me that preparation is the key to surviving such a long, grueling flight.

Get plenty of rest before the flight, and make sure to exercise and stretch during the journey.

This flight features a twin-class setup, with business and premium economy. The premium economy seats are arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration.

Let me give you a quick tour.

This seat has been part of Singapore Airlines since 2013, and it’s currently available on the A350 and 777-300ER. (The A380 has a different model.)

Plenty of handy storage for those “things” that always seem to vanish.

Instead of sliding out into a bed, this chair transforms by pulling down the backrest to create a flat mattress-like surface.

However, when it’s time to sleep, you strangely end up lying at an angle.

Hour 10:

I have a confession to make: I’m actually enjoying this.

We’re just over the halfway mark, roughly 7.5 hours out from New York.

This part of the journey has included eating, watching a movie, catching some sleep, chatting, and even a bit of walking.

Caught up on some more sleep – and there’s still the equivalent of crossing the Atlantic ahead of me!

We’re soaring high above, passing Russia to the west, and making our way toward Alaska, crossing the northernmost part of the Pacific.

People are starting to wake up now, and a meal service will be coming up in about an hour.

Hour 8-9:

In around three hours, the second meal will be served. Perfect time for a bit of rest before then!

Ah yes, a comforting cup of hot chocolate and a biscuit to unwind before sleep.

Hour 7:

I’ve just had a refreshing 20-minute nap. I’ll save my main sleep for hour nine, so for now, it’s movie time. KrisWorld, Singapore Airlines’ entertainment system, boasts over a thousand films.

I’m one of those people who’s seen nearly every movie – at least on flights. And yes, “Dunkirk” was surprisingly good on a 14-inch screen.

Airlines like Singapore Airlines invest heavily in their in-flight entertainment. On ultra-long flights, it’s even more vital for keeping passengers entertained and comfortable.

An increasing number of US airlines are encouraging passengers to bring their own devices (BYOD) and connect to the onboard server for access to the latest blockbusters.

As one CEO shared with me, “Our passengers update their screens regularly... all I need to do is provide the content!”

The issue for me is that, more often than not, nothing appeals to me. So, I find myself binge-watching “Downton Abbey” or “The Crown.” Again.

Not tonight, though! I’ve decided to watch “Ocean’s 8.”

P.S. Has anyone actually figured out what’s going on in a Bourne movie?

Hour 5-6:

So now the big question – when should I sleep?

We still have 12 hours left, and we’re now expected to land at 5:12 AM EST. I always try to adjust my watch and mindset to the time zone of my destination.

I really need to hold off on sleeping for at least another three hours. That’s going to be tough – I haven’t slept at all yet, and technically it’s 5 AM for me. Can I stay awake for another three hours? I have to!

Everyone around me is asleep. They’ll wake up in a few hours with six hours still left, and land in New York utterly exhausted.

If – IF – I can manage to fall asleep in the next two or three hours, I could still get a solid six hours of rest.

I’ve been fighting jet lag for years. As this article points out, the best we can do is minimize the impact.

A quick nap as we fly past Tokyo. Pretty sure it’s just me and Teddy still awake on this flight… and hopefully one of the four pilots too!

Hour 3-4:

It’s time for food. And surprise, surprise, there’s an abundance of it. The plane is loaded with meals and drinks.

The first business class meal is called “after takeoff.” It’s a two-course affair, served on classic airline trays.

I sampled all the main courses offered:

Steamed lobster dumplings in an exquisite broth. The soup lived up to its reputation and the dumplings were delicious. A solid choice.

The snapper was a little dry, and the combination of flavors felt unusual.

Beef Hor Fun. Chinese-style wok-fried rice noodles with beef and savory gravy. This was the clear favorite – absolutely delicious.

On board with us is Richard Neo, Singapore Airlines' manager for food and beverages.

He shared how the airline has honed its expertise in managing ultra-long-haul flights. From my time hosting Dinogo’s Business Traveller, I’ve learned that the real challenge is crafting meals that retain their flavor after being rapidly chilled post-cooking.

Over 500 meals are being served to the 161 passengers aboard this flight. The next round of food will arrive in about five hours. (Thankfully, there are noodles and plenty of snacks on hand, so I won’t go hungry before then.)

I’ll have another update for you shortly, but in the meantime, feel free to check out my Instagram feed @questinny

Hour 2:

Let’s dive into the details of the navigation and the route we’re taking on this journey.

Singapore and New York lie on opposite ends of the globe. Today, we’re following the NOPAC North Pacific route, which takes us over the South China Sea, flying past China and Russia.

We’ll be crossing the northern Pacific, which transitions into the Bering Sea, before entering Alaska, heading across northern Canada, and finally reaching New York.

There are four Polar routes available, typically used between May and August.

The route over the Atlantic is only used for the return journey from Newark, due to the strong headwinds faced on the outbound leg.

The path we take ultimately depends on factors like wind strength, wind direction, and the availability of altitude and flight tracks across the oceans.

Tonight, we’re flying the NOPAC route, just to the east of the North Pole.

Next update: FOOD! There’s plenty of delicious food to enjoy on board.

Hour 1:

I just had an interesting chat with the flight’s commanding officer, Captain S L Leong. He shared how the flight crew manages to stay on duty for a marathon 18-hour flight.

The crew is divided into two teams, each consisting of a captain and a first officer, who alternate flying the plane.

The first team handles the takeoff, then takes a rest for up to five hours while the second team flies the aircraft.

After three hours, the teams swap again – one team flies while the other rests.

The original captain takes the plane in for landing.

Managing crew rest is one of the biggest challenges of operating these ultra long-haul flights.

The captain mentioned that the aircraft weighed 272 metric tons at takeoff, just eight tons shy of its maximum allowable weight of 280 tons.

At takeoff, we had 101 tons of fuel onboard. The captain expects to burn about seven tons per hour during the first part of the flight (we’re carrying fuel just to carry more fuel).

Thanks to strong tailwinds, this inaugural flight will take around 17 hours and 25 minutes. However, the return flight to Singapore will face headwinds and could take as long as 19 hours.

Takeoff:

We’re airborne, pushing back from the gate right on schedule at 11:35 p.m. Singapore time and lifting off 25 minutes later. Ahead of us is nearly 19 hours of uninterrupted flight time.

Takeoff was incredibly smooth, even with the rainy conditions in Singapore. The brand-new Airbus A350-900ULR’s twin Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, capable of generating up to 97,000 pounds of thrust, performed flawlessly.

I’ve already swapped into something more comfortable.

I’ll be blogging each hour during the flight, except for a four-hour stretch when we lose Wi-Fi. The next update will be at the top of the hour with route and aircraft details. Catch you then!

One hour before takeoff:

We’ve just boarded the flight at gate 8 in Changi.

There’s something exhilarating about a new flight. A new destination, a fresh adventure.

It’s even more thrilling when it’s the world’s longest flight. From Singapore to New York… and the journey begins now.

The story before boarding:

Spending almost 19 hours locked inside an aircraft might seem like a nightmare to some, but for others, when Singapore Airlines flight SQ22 takes off from its home base bound for New York, it’s nothing short of a dream.

This record-breaking journey, aboard the brand-new Airbus A350-900ULR (Ultra Long Range), marks the dawn of a new age in air travel, making the world feel just a little smaller as it becomes the world’s longest nonstop scheduled flight.

For aviation enthusiasts like me, this doesn’t get much more thrilling.

I’m fortunate to have a seat on this historic inaugural flight, and I’ll be sharing my live updates as we take off from Singapore’s Changi Airport, head northeast over Alaska, and finally touch down at Newark Liberty International Airport, just outside New York.

Our takeoff is set for 11:35 p.m. Singapore time (11:35 a.m. in New York, 4:35 p.m. in London) on Thursday, October 11, and, if all goes well, we’ll be landing the next day at 6 a.m. New York time (11:00 a.m. London, 6 p.m. Singapore).

But what’s it really like to spend over 18 hours in the air? How does the human body handle it? How do the cabin crew manage? And what’s the situation with the plane’s bathrooms?

I’ll be documenting my experiences—both the highs and the lows—and sharing those of my 160 fellow passengers as we make aviation history.

Stay tuned for live updates throughout our journey as we cover the 16,700 kilometers (10,376 miles) to our destination.

In the meantime, you can dive deeper into the details of the highly efficient aircraft we’re flying, and the incredible journey ahead, here.

But first, let’s explore what exactly qualifies as the world’s longest flight.

It may seem straightforward, but it’s actually more complex than it sounds.

There are many ways to define it, with experts often debating the specifics for hours.

Of course, the distance covered is one factor, but flight duration also plays a significant role. Sometimes, strong headwinds can stretch a shorter distance into a longer flight, and vice versa.

Typically, we can confidently say the longest flights are those that follow the Great Circle Route, which is the shortest path between two points on the globe.

For example, when flying from New York to London, the plane doesn’t take a direct route over the ocean because that would mean flying along the Earth’s wider circumference.

Instead, the flight veers north, curving past Canada, Greenland, and Iceland before heading south to Ireland and then London.

With this in mind, here are the most widely recognized longest flights in the world:

Singapore to New York

This route was originally operated by Singapore Airlines using an Airbus A340-500, which took around 18 hours to reach Newark.

In 2013, Singapore Airlines took advantage of an agreement with Airbus to return the planes, marking the end of this route for a time.

Now, five years later, equipped with the more fuel-efficient Airbus A350-900 Ultra Long Haul, the airline is once again able to fly directly from Singapore to New York and turn a profit.

Starting October 11, this will undoubtedly become the longest regularly scheduled nonstop commercial flight in the world, with no arguments.

Perth to London

Since 1947, the journey from Australia to London has been known as The Kangaroo Route. Originally, it involved several stops—Sydney, Darwin, Singapore, Calcutta, Karachi, Cairo, Castel Benito, Rome, and finally London—taking about four days to complete.

Back then, this was considered a quick journey.

This year, Qantas managed to complete the entire trip in one go, using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to cover the distance in just over 17 hours.

Other aircraft like the Boeing 777-200LR, Airbus A380, and A340-500 were also capable of flying this route, but they were heavier, with more seats than necessary. Operating these on the 'long thin route' would have been challenging financially.

Other flights in the top 10

Qantas operates the Sydney-Dallas route using the A380, Qatar Airways runs Doha-Auckland, Emirates flies Dubai-Auckland, and United Airlines connects San Francisco to Singapore with a 787-9.

The reintroduction of Singapore-New York will settle the current rivalry—at least for now.

By linking these two major global hubs, this flight likely represents the last viable long-haul route an airline can offer and still make it commercially successful.

Until Qantas’ Project Sunrise takes off, that is.

Qantas has tasked both Airbus and Boeing to design aircraft capable of flying nonstop for 17,000 kilometers, connecting Sydney to London. The airline aims to place an order for these upgraded planes by 2019, with the first flights expected in 2022.

If it goes ahead, that flight will take approximately 20 hours, earning it the title of the longest commercial flight in the world.

The REAL record-holder for longest flight.

Wait a minute—did I just claim these were the longest flights?

The official record for the longest flight, as recognized by Guinness World Records, is a 22-hour and 42-minute journey from Hong Kong to London in 2005.

Boeing was showcasing the capabilities of its 777-200LR, also known as the Worldliner, which is why the flight took the longer route.

I was one of just 30 passengers on board, as Boeing needed a few paying customers to meet the criteria for breaking the record.

Throughout the nearly full-day flight, we played games, exercised, interacted with the eight pilots, and even slept on mattresses placed at the back, where the seats had been removed.

The flight took off from Hong Kong and made its way across the Pacific, landing near Los Angeles before continuing the journey.

We continued our journey across the United States, flying over New York's JFK Airport, before heading out over the Atlantic and arriving in London, where we were greeted with a water-cannon salute.

Now that was truly a marathon flight.