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Sign up for Crystal Travel emails below to reveal a promo code you can use today.Discover everything about long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights, including their meaning and key differences. Book long-haul flights with Crystal Travel and choose from 500+ airlines worldwide.
The definition of a long-haul flight varies between airlines, but it generally refers to flights lasting between 6 and 12 hours, whether direct or with stopovers.
Due to their extended duration, long-haul flights are usually scheduled only once or twice a day and are operated by large, widebody aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787. These planes offer more seating capacity and a wider range of cabin classes compared to smaller aircraft.
While most long-haul flights connect different continents or distant regions, some large countries, including the US and Russia, have long-haul domestic routes due to their vast geography.
Traditionally, full-service legacy carriers have dominated long-haul routes, providing premium amenities tailored for extended journeys. However, with the evolution of the airline industry, more hybrid and low-cost airlines are entering the long-haul market, making these flights more accessible to budget-conscious travelers.
Ultra long-haul flights are non-stop journeys lasting over 12 hours, typically operated by large, widebody aircraft. These flights are usually offered by major international airlines, as they require advanced aircraft capabilities and extensive operational planning.
Common ultra long-haul routes include connections between the US and Oceania, the Middle East and Oceania, as well as flights between the US and regions like Central Asia, South Africa, and the Middle East. However, ultra long-haul travel is not limited to these routes and can be found across various global destinations.
Currently, one of the longest ultra long-haul flights is Emirates’ Auckland to Dubai service, covering a flight time of approximately 17 hours and 30 minutes. As aviation technology advances, airlines continue to explore even longer routes, pushing the boundaries of non-stop travel.
If your long-haul flight is delayed, you may be eligible for compensation, but the rules depend on the departure and arrival locations, as well as the length of the delay.
For instance, flights departing from the EU that are delayed by more than three hours typically qualify for compensation under European regulations. However, if your journey starts outside the EU, different rules may apply, even if your destination is within the EU.
If you need assistance determining whether you’re entitled to compensation, or if you’re unsure how to proceed with a claim, our team can help by liaising with the airline on your behalf. Visit our **Contact Us** page for guidance on the next steps.
A long-haul flight is typically any flight lasting between 6 to 12 hours, whether direct or with a stopover. These flights are usually operated by widebody aircraft designed for longer journeys.
Long-haul flights:6 to 12 hours
Ultra long-haul flights:Over 12 hours non-stop
Ultra long-haul flights usually connect distant destinations such as London to Sydney or New York to Singapore.
Many international airlines offer long-haul flights, including British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air France, and Virgin Atlantic..
Popular long-haul routes include:
London – New York
Dubai – Sydney
Los Angeles – Tokyo
Paris – Bangkok
Toronto – Hong Kong
Yes! At Crystal Travel, we offer a wide range of long-haul flights with over 500 airlines, ensuring you find the best fares and flexible options.
To get the best deals on long-haul flights:
Book early (ideally 3-6 months in advance)
Be flexible with your travel dates
Consider flights with stopovers for lower fares
Use our flight comparison tool at Crystal Travel to find the best prices
Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket type. While full-service airlines often include checked baggage, budget carriers may charge extra. Check baggage policies before booking.
Window seats for sleeping and a scenic view
Aisle seats for easy movement
Exit row or bulkhead seats for extra legroom
Wear loose, comfortable clothing
Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol
Bring a travel pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and an eye mask
Move and stretch periodically during the flight
Most long-haul flights offer seat-back entertainment with movies, TV shows, and games. Some airlines also provide Wi-Fi and charging ports for personal devices.
If your flight is delayed, you may be entitled to compensation based on the airline and departure country’s regulations. For example, EU law provides compensation for flights delayed over 3 hours departing from an EU country.
If your flight is canceled due to reasons **within the airline’s control, you may be eligible for a refund, rebooking, or compensation depending on the airline’s policy.
If all flights are booked on the same ticket, the airline will rebook you on the next available flight.
- If flights are booked separately, you may need to purchase a new ticket for the missed leg.
