What Is an Ultra Long Haul Flight? Understanding Flight Duration
An ultra long haul flight is a nonstop commercial flight that generally takes about 16 hours or more, and is not scheduled to stop at any point. These very long flights are a challenge to plan, and involve selecting the right seat, sleeping on the plane, and dealing with jet lag.
Ultra long haul flights may be a convenient option for travellers leaving the UK intending to travel to destinations like Australia without a stopover. But this much flying time demands much more preparation than a short-haul or long-haul flight.
To understand what is ultra long haul travel, you need to consider flight time, aircraft technology, passenger comfort and the time zone crossing challenges. From long-distance travel to a 17-hour flight, the right preparation can make your trip more comfortable.
Flights may be cancelled or unavailable and airline policies may vary, please check with your airline before booking.
The Longest Ultra Long Haul Flights in the World
The longest scheduled passenger flights in the world are between the major cities of Asia, North America, the Middle East and Australasia. These routes show how modern aircraft can link up two places without having to call at a specific place.
When looking for the longest flights in the world it is crucial to differentiate distance from duration. Flight time for a route may be different due to wind, weather, air traffic control and direction of flight.
The time taken for a flight to the east could be different from the time taken for a flight to the west. Operational delays can also impact actual arrival times.
Why Are Some of the Longest Flights So Long?
Several factors influence the duration of an ultra-long-distance journey:
- Geographical distance: Some city pairs are thousands of miles apart.
- Prevailing winds: Tailwinds and headwinds can significantly affect flight time.
- Air traffic routing: Aircraft may need to follow approved routes or avoid restricted airspace.
- Aircraft performance: Range, payload and fuel requirements affect which routes can operate nonstop.
- Operational planning: Airlines must account for fuel reserves, alternate airports and other safety requirements.
With nonstop services, passengers won’t have to change planes or pick up bags or wait at another airport. But not all long distance routes are suitable for the nonstop operation.
For more details on record-breaking flights and journeys, check out our guide to the longest flights in the world.
Ultra Long Haul Flights From the UK: Routes and Travel Tips
Some of the toughest trips for UK travellers are to Australia, New Zealand, and other far-flung locations. Depending on the route and airline and timetable, a journey can be a non-stop service or a connection will be made somewhere.
Not all trips to Australia are considered ultra-long haul. Some trips include a stop, others are longer based on the direction of travel or the connection used.
When booking, compare the overall travel time, not just the time for the first flight.
How to Choose the Right UK Departure and Arrival Times
The time of departure and arrival can make a world of difference to your mood while and after a long flight.
- Overnight departure: May provide an opportunity to sleep during the journey, depending on your body clock.
- Daytime departure: May make it easier to stay awake and adjust your routine on arrival.
- Morning arrival: Can be useful if you can stay awake until a reasonable local bedtime.
- Late arrival: May allow you to go to sleep soon after reaching your accommodation.
Think about what you need to do once you’ve landed. If you have a critical meeting, a long drive or a hectic first day, you might be more interested in the rest than the slight savings on the ticket price.
For a practical example, see our article on how long the flight from Heathrow to Perth, Australia, takes.
What to Check Before Booking an Ultra Long Haul Flight
Before purchasing your ticket, compare:
- Nonstop and connecting itineraries.
- Total travel time, including any connection.
- Seat selection charges.
- Checked baggage and cabin baggage allowances.
- Meal options and special assistance availability.
- Departure and arrival times in local time.
- Cancellation, change and refund conditions.
A connecting flight may be cheaper, while a nonstop service may save time and reduce the stress of changing aircraft. The best choice depends on your budget, schedule and comfort needs.
How Ultra Long Range Flights Work
When it comes to aircraft and services that are able to travel very long distances without refueling, the term ultra long range flights is often used. Depending on the context, it can have different meanings.
These flights need to be carefully balanced for fuel, aircraft weight, range, capacity and safety planning.
Fuel Efficiency and Range on Ultra Long Haul Flights
One of the most important factors for a long, unbroken flight is fuel. An aircraft must have enough fuel for the flight, conditions to be expected, reserve, and any necessary diversion.
The more fuel carried the heavier the aircraft will be, and this can impact the amount of cargo and passengers that it can accommodate. Airlines then carefully plan their routes to optimize fuel needs and payload.
Modern aircraft features aerodynamic and engine technology that makes them more efficient, allowing airlines to fly some longer-distance routes with greater profit.
Engine Reliability and Flight Planning
Aviation standards are very strict and commercial aircraft engines are designed and maintained accordingly. Airlines have maintenance programmes, operational procedures and inspection schedules to help keep operations safe.
For flights over remote areas, detailed planning is also necessary. Weather, appropriate diversion airports, crew requirements and other operational considerations are taken into account by the airlines.
What ETOPS Means for Ultra Long Range Flights
ETOPS is a term used with rules for some extended-range operations, especially for twin-engine aircraft that fly routes where suitable diversion airports may be distant.
These rules are used to decide whether an aircraft and/or an airline are eligible for certain operations. The requirements depend on the aircraft, route and applicable regulatory approvals.
For technical background, read the FAA guidance on extended operations.
Crew Rest and Passenger Comfort on Very Long Flights
Airlines are required to schedule staffing and crew rest requirements for very long services, in accordance with applicable requirements. Comfort is also important for the passenger as a long time sitting can cause stiffness, fatigue and poor sleep.
Range is not all that matters. The following factors are essential to long-distance operations: Aircraft capability, crew planning, maintenance and route management.
How to Prepare for a 17-Hour Ultra Long Haul Flight
If you break up a 17 hour flight into smaller chunks, it may seem more manageable.
Planning for sleep, food and activity and entertainment before you get to the airport is the best approach.
Preparing for an 8-Hour Flight
Even an eight-hour flight can become uncomfortable if you are unprepared.
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
- Download films, podcasts, music or reading material.
- Keep essential medication in your hand luggage.
- Bring a refillable water bottle to use after passing security.
- Move your legs and feet regularly, and walk around when it is safe.
Preparing for a 12-Hour Flight
A 12-hour journey requires more attention to rest and routine.
- Adjust your bedtime gradually if your destination’s time zone is very different.
- Pack an eye mask, earplugs or a neck pillow if you find them useful.
- Choose a seat that suits your sleep habits and mobility needs.
- Download entertainment in case the onboard selection does not suit you.
- Think about when you will eat and when you would like to sleep.
Preparing for a 16-Hour-Plus Ultra Long Haul Flight
For a genuine ultra-long-haul journey, preparation becomes especially valuable.
Before departure:
- Check your airline’s baggage, meal and seat-selection policies.
- Review the local time at your destination.
- Decide whether to sleep during the flight or stay awake until closer to the destination’s bedtime.
- Pack medication, chargers, toiletries and essential clothing where you can reach them.
- Plan airport transfers around your expected arrival time.
During the flight:
- Drink water regularly and limit alcohol if it disrupts your sleep or leaves you feeling unwell.
- Move your ankles and feet while seated.
- Walk around the cabin when permitted and safe.
- Eat according to your comfort and the schedule you are trying to follow.
- Break the journey into manageable periods of rest, meals, movement and entertainment.
After landing:
- Get daylight at an appropriate local time.
- Eat meals according to the destination’s clock.
- Avoid a long daytime nap if you need to sleep at the local bedtime.
- Allow yourself time to recover before scheduling demanding activities.
For more practical advice, read our guide to sleeping on a long flight.
The Best Aircraft for Ultra Long Haul Flights
The type of aircraft may affect the seating arrangement, noise, lighting and seat choices. But the exact configuration of the airline is important as well as the type of aircraft.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Ultra Long Haul Flights
There are many long-distance routes that use the Boeing 787. The cabin systems it offers include an electronically dimmable window on many versions and passenger comfort systems.
Seat tip: Check the exact seat map prior to booking. Window seats offer a wall to lean against to sleep and aisle seats are easier to get in and out of without disturbing other passengers.
Choosing a Boeing 777 Seat for a Long Flight
The Boeing 777 is used on numerous busy international routes. Cabin layouts are very different across airlines, and even in economy class and premium economy/business class.
Seat tip: See how many seats are available in each row, and where galleys and toilets are located. Noises and foot traffic may be more noticeable near areas with high traffic.
Airbus A350 Comfort on Ultra Long Haul Flights
The Airbus A350 is made for long-distance flights and is utilized on numerous intercontinental flights.
Seat tip: Consider seat width, pitch, recline and the arrangement of the individual cabin. Not all A350s have the same size.
What to Know About the Airbus A380 Cabin
Airbus A380 is a double-decker plane that is flown by selected airlines on long-haul international flights. The operator may offer various classes of travel in its large cabin.
Seat tip: Be sure to look at the deck, cabin and row number. Seats on the upper deck might be different from seats in the main cabin in terms of layout and ambiance.
How to Choose the Best Seat for an Ultra Long Haul Flight
| Your priority | Seat to consider | What to check |
| Sleeping | Window | Wall position, recline and nearby traffic |
| Easy movement | Aisle | Whether you will disturb other passengers when leaving |
| Extra legroom | Exit row or bulkhead, where suitable | Restrictions, armrests, bassinets and seat fees |
| Quiet surroundings | Away from galleys and toilets | Seat map and likely foot traffic |
| Travelling with a baby | Airline-approved bassinet positions | Availability, eligibility and reservation rules |
Different airlines can provide vastly different aircraft experiences. Never assume that just because the aircraft is the same name as the previous flight, the seat map will be the same.
Economy, Premium Economy or Business Class on Ultra Long Haul Flights?
The best cabin for an ultra-long-haul flight will depend on your budget, your sleeping ability in an upright position and what you have to do when you arrive.
Economy Class on an Ultra Long Haul Flight
Economy is the lowest cost option in general. It might work if you can recline in a seat and can live without needing many comfort-enhancing gadgets.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, people who are okay with long travel times and those who prefer to spend more on their arrival.
Premium Economy for Long-Distance Comfort
Premium economy generally provides more legroom than economy, but this may differ by carrier. You might receive a wider seat, more legroom, more recline, better meal service or extra bags of luggage, depending on the fare.
Best for: Passengers who desire more privacy than economy class, but not the high cost of business class.
Business Class for Ultra Long Range Flights
Often, business class will have a larger seat and many long-haul products will have a lie-flat bed. Access to lounge areas, priority services and baggage handling may also be available depending on the airline and ticket.
Best for: People who require a good night’s sleep, must get to work quickly or who value privacy and comfort.
Is Premium Economy Worth the Extra Cost?
Compare the total cost of the difference, not the cabin label.
| Factor | What to compare |
| Cash price | The total return fare, including fees |
| Seat comfort | Width, pitch, recline and footrest |
| Baggage | The allowance included in your exact fare |
| Airport benefits | Priority check-in, boarding or lounge access, if included |
| Departure time | Whether the flight overlaps with your normal sleeping hours |
| Air Passenger Duty | The applicable tax rate for the route and cabin |
| Arrival plans | Whether extra rest will help you arrive ready to work or explore |
For a daytime flight, extra space may make the journey more pleasant even if you do not sleep much. On an overnight flight, a more supportive seat may be more valuable if it helps you rest.
Practical tip: If the upgrade cost is manageable and arriving rested is important, premium economy may be a sensible compromise. If you are travelling on a strict budget, a carefully selected economy seat can still work well.
UK Air Passenger Duty for Ultra Long Haul Flights
Air Passenger Duty (APD) is a UK tax that could impact the cost of flights leaving the UK. The quantity is dependent on the destination band, class of travel and rules that may apply.
APD rates may vary and the applicable rate is dependent on the date of travel and the type of travel. It’s not a case of economy versus premium economy, unless all of the difference is tax.
Before publishing or booking, check the latest official GOV.UK Air Passenger Duty rates.
To compare cabin fares, check the full fare and make sure you understand what is covered. APD may vary in certain situations depending on seat pitch and class-of-travel rules.
How to Manage Jet Lag on an Ultra Long Haul Flight
The term “jet lag” refers to the effect of crossing time zones on your body’s natural clock. Common symptoms include tiredness, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration and digestive changes.
The most effective strategy is to make slow and steady changes and adopt the local time of the destination as closely as possible.
For further health guidance, read the NHS guide to jet lag.
Preparing for an Ultra Long Haul Flight Before Departure
- Check the time difference between the UK and your destination.
- If practical, move your bedtime gradually towards the destination’s schedule.
- Get enough sleep in the days before travel rather than starting the journey already exhausted.
- Plan your first day’s activities so you have time to adjust.
Staying Comfortable During a 17-Hour Flight
- Set your watch or phone to the destination’s local time.
- Try to sleep when it is nighttime at your destination if that fits your route and circumstances.
- Eat and rest in a way that helps you transition to the new schedule.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and consider limiting caffeine close to your planned sleep period.
- Use an eye mask or earplugs if they help you rest.
Recovering After an Ultra Long Haul Flight
- Spend time outdoors in daylight at an appropriate local time.
- Eat according to the local schedule.
- Keep naps short if you need to stay awake until local bedtime.
- Allow yourself time to adjust, especially after travelling across many time zones.
Should You Take Melatonin for Jet Lag?
In some cases, melatonin is employed to assist with sleep timing, but it isn’t appropriate for all and timing is important. If you are thinking about it, consult a pharmacist or clinician, particularly if you are on other medication or have a health condition.
Don’t think you need a sleeping pill or supplement to get through a long flight.
Health and Safety Tips for Ultra Long Haul Flights
Spending many hours in a seated position can cause stiffness and may increase the risk of blood clots in some passengers. The level of risk varies from person to person.
To make the journey more comfortable:
- Move your feet and ankles regularly while seated.
- Walk around the cabin when it is safe and the seatbelt sign is off.
- Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement.
- Drink water regularly.
- Follow airline crew instructions and keep your seatbelt fastened while seated.
Passengers with a history of blood clots, recent surgery, certain medical conditions or other risk factors should seek personalised medical advice before travelling.
Read the NHS guide to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority guidance on air travel and your health.
If you notice symptoms that could be caused by a blood clot, such as pain and swelling in one leg, get urgent medical advice. Sudden difficulty breathing or chest pain is an emergency.
UK Airport Security Rules for Ultra Long Haul Flights
You should always find out the latest hand luggage regulations for the airport you are flying from and all intermediate airports.
The liquid rules may vary between airports due to the variation in screening equipment and procedures. The 100ml container rule is still in place at many airports and some airports may have larger container limits in place.
It’s best to refer to the official GOV.UK advice on liquids in hand luggage just before travelling.
Remember to check:
- Toiletries, creams, gels and sprays.
- Medicines and any documentation you may need.
- Rules for liquids bought at duty-free shops.
- Rules at connecting airports, including on your return journey.
Do not assume that a rule at one UK airport will apply at every other airport.
Travelling With a Baby on an Ultra Long Haul Flight
If you’re travelling with a baby, it’s important to plan for a very long flight, especially for feeding, sleep and to keep things easy for the baby, as well as making sure essential items are easily accessible and not lost in the luggage.
Bassinets and Seats on Ultra Long Haul Flights
Selected aircraft and seats may be available for bassinets with some airlines. It is not widely available and may be dependent on the age, weight and height of the baby.
If a bassinet is required, please contact the airline prior to booking. Not every seat will be available upon request and you might have to book a specific seat.
Infant Fares and Baggage for Long-Haul Flights
Airlines can charge different rates for infants on the lap of an adult vs. infants in their own seat. Baggage allowances, pushchair arrangements and car-seat rules also vary.
Before paying, check:
- Whether the infant will have a separate seat.
- Whether a checked bag is included.
- Whether a pushchair or car seat can be carried.
- Whether the airline provides a bassinet on your aircraft.
- Whether you need to bring an approved child restraint.
Baby Milk and Food at UK Airport Security
Under rules of the United Kingdom Government passengers travelling with a baby may carry baby food, baby milk and sterilised water for the journey, subject to screening and the relevant rules. There are also exemptions for some liquids that are essential.
Check the official GOV.UK guidance on baby food and baby milk before leaving home.
Have a bag with nappies, wipes, spare clothes, feeding supplies and any necessary medication. Give yourself more time at the airport and ask the airline ahead of time about their infant facilities.
The Future of Ultra Long Range Flights
Technology continues to advance and airlines are interested in direct flyers between far-flung destinations.
Scheduled non-stop flights to London and New York, among others, have come under the spotlight with projects like Qantas’ Project Sunrise. Project schedules, aircraft plans and launch dates may change, please refer to the latest official announcement of the airline.
The development of the future will be based on the performance of aircraft, commercial demand, operating cost, crew arrangement and passengers comfort.
The aim is not just to extend the time people can stay up there. Its purpose is to make very long flights convenient, safe, and pleasant to passengers, relative to connecting flights.
FAQs: Ultra Long Haul Flight
What Is an Ultra Long Haul Flight?
An ultra long haul flight is generally a nonstop commercial flight lasting around 16 hours or longer. Definitions vary, so the term is best treated as a practical description rather than a universal official category.
Is a 17-Hour Flight Difficult?
A 17 hour flight can be tiring, particularly if you struggle to sleep sitting upright or are crossing several time zones. Choosing a suitable seat, drinking water regularly, moving around safely and planning rest can help make the journey more manageable.
What Should I Wear on an Ultra Long Haul Flight?
Choose comfortable, breathable layers and footwear that is easy to remove if appropriate. Avoid clothing that restricts movement, and consider bringing an extra layer because cabin temperatures can vary.
Is Premium Economy Worth It for a 16-Hour Flight?
It can be worthwhile if the additional seat space and recline help you rest or arrive feeling more comfortable. Compare the fare difference, baggage allowance, seat specifications and any included airport benefits before deciding.
How Can I Sleep on an Ultra Long Haul Flight?
Use the destination’s local time as a guide, bring any sleep accessories you find helpful and reduce unnecessary noise and light. For more ideas, read our guide to sleeping on a long flight.
Are Ultra Long Range Flights Safe?
Commercial flights operate under aviation safety requirements, with aircraft maintenance, operational planning and crew procedures designed to manage risk. Individual medical circumstances can affect whether flying is appropriate for a particular passenger, so seek medical advice if you have specific concerns.
Can Babies Travel on Ultra Long Haul Flights?
Babies can travel on many long-distance commercial services, but the arrangements depend on the airline. Check infant fares, bassinet eligibility, seat requirements, baggage allowances and feeding arrangements before booking.
Are Nonstop Flights Always Better Than Connecting Flights?
Not necessarily. A nonstop flight avoids a connection and can reduce the chance of missing a connecting service, but it may cost more or have less convenient departure times. Compare total journey time, price, baggage arrangements and your own comfort needs.
Final Thoughts: Making Ultra Long Haul Flights More Comfortable
An ultra long haul flight can be a convenient way to travel between distant parts of the world, but a little planning goes a long way.
Select seat based on requirements, adjust to sleep and time zone, inspect luggage and airport regulations, and schedule time to move while in flight. If you’re thinking about premium economy, compare the premium economy benefits and premium economy fare, not just the airline.
Before travelling, it is also advisable for UK travellers to review current Air Passenger Duty regulations and the current airport security guidance.
But even a 17 hour flight can seem more manageable with realistic expectations and a sensible plan and the destination might be worth the trip.
