United Closes In On World's Longest Flight

We hope you have an extra book in your carry-on because a future United Airlines flight may become the longest in the world.

USA Today reports the airline is hoping to get past the regulatory phase and launch its Boeing 787 Dreamliner nonstop between Los Angeles and Singapore—a flight that would cover 8,700 miles.

That would make it the longest trip flying in or out of the United States based on a flight time of 17 hours, 55 minutes.

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As the report notes, that distinction would mean a longer flight time than the current marathon: Qatar Airways’ 17-hour, 40-minute epic from Auckland, New Zealand, to Doha, Qatar.

USA Today quotes Patrick Quayle, United’s vice president – International Planning, who proclaims: “It’s the longest route from the U.S. to anywhere in the world. It’s definitely prestigious.”

The accolade comes at a time when the airline is attemptedly turning the tide against a wave of negative press that began this year. Just recently the airline boasted an all-time high regarding its share price on Wall Street. It also won the naming rights to the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and now it may soon have a historic flight in its embrace.

READ MORE: United CEO Calls Viral Video ‘Watershed Moment’ 

USA Today notes the Dreamliner is produced for long hauls. However, this specific route will mandate what is referred to as “a mild restriction on the aircraft.” So far there hasn’t been any indication of how the airline will accommodate issues with load or fuel consumption.

Thankfully, there are steps one can take to remain fit and sane during extremely long flights. Travel Pulse's Holly Johnson has nine such tips that may help those of you stuck in a small seat for nearly 18 hours this fall.

And if you are looking for an opportunity to read a few books you have been putting off, this jaunt to the other side of the world sounds like a nice way to do just that. You will help United claim a record at the same time.

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