Updated

British Airways is launching its longest ever long-haul flight – to Santiago, Chile.

The airline will fly four times a week direct to the Chilean capital, a journey of 14 hours, 40 minutes – nearly an hour longer than its current longest flight, to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The new route utilizes Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner planes, which boast a four-class cabin complete with a completely revamped new First cabin.

According to a Britsh Airways press release, the new first cabin is "a very private eight-suite space, with four additional storage areas around each seat, including an ottoman, a personal suiter, a locker for small personal effects and a device stowage space complete with device powering capability."

Each seat will have a 23-inch fixed screen and a smart 'jog-dial' to manage the seat's recline, headrest and lumbar inflate and a global lighting control to set both ambient and reading lighting.

In addition to noting Latin America's growing economy as a hub for business travel, British Airways chief executive Alex Cruz said, “Chile is of enormous appeal to leisure travellers, especially those looking for adventure, exploration and experiences thanks to its outstanding and diverse natural beauty and attractions and its great food and wine.”

The service launches in January 2017 and special fares are available now from about $1,080.