Cheap Flights to Cairns
One-way
Departing from
New Caledonia
Going to
Cairns, Australia
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Cairns. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/6/2025).
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Facts About Flights to Cairns
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Cairns flight facts and tips.
Cairns city airports
Cairns Airport (CNS) is the primary airport serving Cairns and Far North Queensland. As a major gateway for both domestic and international travelers, it offers a wide range of flights connecting Cairns to major Australian cities, as well as international destinations in Asia-Pacific. The airport features modern facilities, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and services to cater to passengers' needs. Conveniently located a short drive from the city center, Cairns Airport provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and other popular tourist attractions in the region, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the natural wonders of Tropical North Queensland.
Pro tip: search “Cairns (Any)” to see fares to all Cairns airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Cairns
Cheapest airport
Cairns (CNS)
Cairns Airport (CNS) is your gateway to tropical paradise! Nestled in Queensland, Australia, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views as you arrive. Get ready to explore the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests right from the doorstep of this convenient hub.
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
Cairns Airport (CNS) acts as a secondary airport, offering both domestic and international routes; popular routes include connections to major Australian cities like Brisbane and Sydney, as well as international destinations in Asia and the Pacific.
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
Cairns is serviced by over ten airlines, including full-service options like Qantas and Virgin Australia, along with budget-friendly choices such as Jetstar and Bonza.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$200 - $800
Generally, flights to Cairns range from $200 to $800, but prices can fluctuate. During the peak tourist season (June-August) and school holidays, expect to pay more. Keep an eye on flights during the wet season (November to March) for potential deals, but be prepared for higher humidity!
Flight frequency
1,100+ flights
Flights to Cairns operate daily, with increased frequency during the peak tourist seasons (June-August) and school holidays. You'll find more options in the mornings and late afternoons, so set your alarms for those early bird deals or catch the sunset on arrival!
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Cairns
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Cairns:
Cheapest month
November
Cheapest month
November is often the cheapest month to fly to Cairns. The weather is pleasant, with warm temperatures and lower humidity compared to the summer months. Plus, you'll avoid the peak tourist season, meaning fewer crowds and potentially lower prices on accommodations and activities.
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
Tuesday is often the best day to book flights to Cairns. Airlines tend to release deals early in the week to try and fill up empty seats. Keep an eye on flash sales and limited-time offers that might pop up on Tuesdays.
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday is often the cheapest day to fly to Cairns. Mid-week flights tend to be less popular with business travelers and weekend vacationers. Flying on Wednesday can save you some serious cash, leaving you with more spending money for your trip.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
The sweet spot for booking flights to Cairns is generally around two months in advance. This timeframe often strikes the right balance between availability and price. Booking too early might not give you the best deals, while waiting until the last minute can lead to higher fares.
Seasonal considerations
Distinct
Seasonal considerations
Cairns experiences distinct seasonal variations that impact flight prices and travel experiences. The dry season (May to October) is peak tourist season, with higher flight prices and more crowds. The wet season (November to April) brings lower prices but also higher humidity and the risk of cyclones.
TL;DR: To snag the cheapest flights to Cairns, aim for November and consider booking around two months in advance. Tuesdays are prime for booking flights, while Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly. Cairns has very distinct seasons, so watch out for the off-season prices. Being flexible with your dates and booking in advance can help you score the best deals for your tropical getaway.
Cairns Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Cairns airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Cairns’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Cairns Airport (CNS)
G'day, travel bugs! Cairns Airport (CNS) is your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the lush Daintree Rainforest. Just a hop, skip, and a jump (about 7km) from Cairns city center, this airport is super convenient. Once you land, you'll find a bunch of shops and restaurants to grab a bite or snag a souvenir. Getting into town is a breeze with shuttle buses, taxis, and ride-share options readily available. Plus, the airport has a relaxed vibe, making your arrival or departure a piece of cake.
Tip: Snag a window seat on your flight in for a sneak peek at the stunning coastline!
Other airports
While Cairns Airport (CNS) is the main gateway, consider flying into nearby cities like Townsville or even Brisbane for potentially cheaper flights. However, factor in the extra travel time and cost to get to Cairns, which could involve a domestic flight, a long bus ride, or a scenic but lengthy drive. Make sure you compare the total cost, including transportation, before booking!
Airport transfers
Getting around from Cairns Airport is a breeze with several options, including airport shuttle buses that drop you off at your hotel, convenient taxi services, and rideshare options like Uber and Ola. For those wanting more independence, you can rent a car from the many car rental agencies located at the airport and explore the city at your own pace.
What to Do in Cairns
Cairns isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Cairns, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & Landmarks
Cairns is a city that has many sightseeing opportunities, you can visit the Cairns Esplanade, a popular waterfront park with a swimming lagoon, walking paths, and barbecue areas. Also, the Cairns Botanic Gardens showcase tropical flora, and the nearby Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome offers animal encounters and panoramic city views.
Arts & Culture
Cairns has a unique art and culture scene that you can explore. The Cairns Regional Gallery exhibits contemporary and historical art, while the Tanks Arts Centre, housed in former World War II fuel tanks, hosts performances, exhibitions, and workshops.
Food & Nightlife
You can explore diverse dining options and nightlife venues in Cairns. The Cairns Esplanade and city center offer a range of restaurants, bars, and cafes serving local and international cuisine. Night markets and live music venues provide entertainment into the late hours.
Shopping & Fashion
Cairns has many shopping destinations that will fill your needs, from souvenirs to high fashion. Cairns Central Shopping Centre offers a variety of retail stores, while the Cairns Night Markets provide an opportunity to purchase souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.
Nearby Getaways
From Cairns there are many nearby getaway locations that you can visit. Day trips to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving, the Daintree Rainforest for guided tours, and Kuranda for scenic train and cable car rides are all great options. These locations offer unique natural experiences within easy reach of Cairns.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Cairns has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Events in Cairns This Month
tnbb @ the jack
Enjoy an evening of high-energy Boogie’n’Blues at The Jack, located at the corner of Spence and Sheridan Streets in Cairns. There's no cover charge, and you can enjoy great food and drinks while you're there.
2025 melbourne cup | pullman cairns international
Experience the excitement of the Melbourne Cup at Pullman Cairns International. Celebrate the 2025 Melbourne Cup in luxury and style with our exclusive event.
2025 collaborative & proactive solutions: cairns
Dr. Greene will be presenting his Introductory and Advanced CPS courses in various locations, including Cairns. He will also be hosting an Australian-first 'CPS' course.
melbourne cup
Celebrate the 2025 Melbourne Cup at Ela Mediterranean with a special 3-course meal, drinks, and a fashion showcase. Ticket sales will support The Salvation Army.
fnq-tfai 2025 year end appreciation gala
Celebrate the end of 2025 with the FNQ-TFAI Year End Appreciation Gala, a memorable event to mark the year's achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Cairns
(Have more questions?) Feel free to reach out or check our comprehensive Cairns travel guide. We’re here to help make your flight to Cairns (and the trip itself) as smooth as possible.
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Cairns
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Cairns flights:
Be Flexible with Your Dates: Cairns calling! If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can snag some serious savings. Mid-week flights and off-season travel often come with significantly lower price tags. Keep an open mind and let the deals guide you!
Set Up Price Alerts: Don't let the perfect fare slip away! Use RatePunk to set up price alerts for your Cairns flights. You'll be notified the moment prices drop, ensuring you never miss out on a bargain. It's like having a personal flight-deal detective!
Consider Nearby Airports: Think outside the box, or rather, the airport! Sometimes flying into a smaller, nearby airport can save you a bundle. Check out options around Cairns; the savings might surprise you. Just factor in any additional travel costs to Cairns itself.
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early): Timing is everything! While last-minute deals are rare, booking too far in advance can also be pricey. Aim for booking 2-3 months ahead for domestic flights to Cairns for the sweet spot of availability and affordability.
Mix and Match Airlines: Don't be afraid to play matchmaker with airlines! Sometimes flying to Cairns with one airline and returning with another can unlock better prices. It requires a bit of searching, but the savings can be worth the extra effort.
Look for Package Deals: Bundle up and save! Check out package deals that combine flights and accommodation. These can often be cheaper than booking everything separately, especially if you find a good offer. Hello, hassle-free holiday!
Follow Airlines on Social Media: Become a social butterfly! Follow your favorite airlines on social media to stay in the loop about flash sales and special promotions. A little scroll through your feed could lead to a Cairns flight bargain.
Clear Your Browser Cookies: Erase your digital footprint! Airlines sometimes track your searches and raise prices accordingly. Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode before searching for flights to Cairns to see the lowest possible fares. Stay stealthy!
Utilize Frequent Flyer Points: Loyalty pays off! If you're a frequent flyer, now's the time to cash in those points or miles. Redeeming them for a flight to Cairns can significantly reduce your travel expenses, or even make it free!
Travel During the Shoulder Season: Beat the crowds (and the prices)! Traveling during the shoulder season (the months just before or after peak season) can offer a sweet spot of pleasant weather and lower prices. Enjoy Cairns without breaking the bank or battling hordes of tourists.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the cheapest flights to Cairns and make the most of your travel budget. After all, the more you save on your flight, the more you can spend on a Broadway show, a nice meal, or an extra tour in Cairns! 🎉✈️
