Brisbane BNE to Cairns CNS flight with Virgin Australia International

Thu, Sep 17
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Journey information

Overview: Brisbane to Cairns flight

AustraliaAustralia
AustraliaAustralia
Icon of flight

Flights from Brisbane to Cairns depart on average 36 times per day, taking around 4h 54m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $74 (€60) if you book in advance.

There are 7 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:55, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 863 miles (1390 km) distance in 2h 15m. September is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
863 miles (1390 km)
Average flight duration
4h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$74 (€60)
Flights per day
36
Direct flights
7
Fastest flight
2h 15m
First flight
12:55 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
21 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

The cheapest and fastest flights from Brisbane to Cairns

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17

Cheapest price on Sep 17

$251

Average ticket price on Sep 17

$675

Fastest journey on Sep 17

2 h 25 m

Average journey duration on Sep 17

2 h 29 m

Flights on Sep 17

42

Distance

1390 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Brisbane to Cairns is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Brisbane to Cairns will cost around $675 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $251.

Fast flights

On Thu, Sep 17, we found 42 flights from Brisbane to Cairns, including 8 direct services.

On Thu, Sep 17 the direct flights cover the 1390 km distance in an average of 2 h 29 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .

On Thu, Sep 17 the longest flights will take 2 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Jetstar AirwaysJQ934
    6:35 PM2h25
    Brisbane
    9:00 PMCairns
    $2511One-way
    0 transfers
  • Jetstar AirwaysJQ928
    6:00 AM2h30
    Brisbane
    8:30 AMCairns
    $3041One-way
    0 transfers
  • Virgin Australia InternationalVA799
    8:50 PM2h30
    Brisbane
    11:20 PMCairns
    $3601One-way
    0 transfers
  • Virgin Australia InternationalVA771
    6:10 AM2h30
    Brisbane
    8:40 AMCairns
    $3601One-way
    0 transfers
  • Virgin Australia InternationalVA793
    5:40 PM2h30
    Brisbane
    8:10 PMCairns
    $3601One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Brisbane to Cairns

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Brisbane to Cairns among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $499 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 54m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $499, while a flight costs an average of $601.

Distance: 863 miles (1390 km)

Compare flight with

Most popular
Flight
Bus
Train
Driving

$601

Average price

$499

Average price

Cheapest

$244

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 54m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

30h 26m

Average total duration

29h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

18h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Brisbane to Cairns is a bus with an average price of $499 (€406).

This is compared to other travel options from Brisbane to Cairns:

A bus is $103 (€84) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Brisbane to Cairns costing on average $601 (€489).

The fastest way to travel from Brisbane to Cairns is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 54m.

Other travel options to Cairns take longer:

Bus takes on average 29h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brisbane and Cairns including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brisbane to Cairns among Omio's users.

Live departures

Brisbane to Cairns flight times

The table below shows live departures for Brisbane to Cairns flights for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Virgin Australia InternationalVA7998:50 PM Brisbane
2h30
11:20 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA358 · VA12979:30 PM Brisbane
22h50
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA358 · VA12919:30 PM Brisbane
12h20
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA358 · VA12939:30 PM Brisbane
15h30
1:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Thursday, September 17
Jetstar AirwaysJQ9286:00 AM Brisbane
2h30
8:30 AM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA306 · VA12976:05 AM Brisbane
14h15
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA306 · VA12936:05 AM Brisbane
6h55
1:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA908 · VA14236:05 AM Brisbane
12h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA908 · VA14136:05 AM Brisbane
5h20
11:25 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA7716:10 AM Brisbane
2h30
8:40 AM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA912 · VA14236:35 AM Brisbane
11h50
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA912 · VA14196:35 AM Brisbane
9h20
3:55 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA308 · VA12916:55 AM Brisbane
26h55
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA308 · VA12976:55 AM Brisbane
13h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA916 · VA14197:05 AM Brisbane
8h50
3:55 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA916 · VA14237:05 AM Brisbane
11h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA314 · VA12977:55 AM Brisbane
12h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA314 · VA12917:55 AM Brisbane
25h55
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA924 · VA14238:05 AM Brisbane
10h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA7758:40 AM Brisbane
2h30
11:10 AM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Jetstar AirwaysJQ9308:45 AM Brisbane
2h30
11:15 AM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA318 · VA12978:55 AM Brisbane
11h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA932 · VA14199:05 AM Brisbane
6h50
3:55 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA932 · VA14239:05 AM Brisbane
9h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA322 · VA12979:55 AM Brisbane
10h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA938 · VA142310:05 AM Brisbane
8h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA938 · VA141910:05 AM Brisbane
5h50
3:55 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA78110:40 AM Brisbane
2h30
1:10 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA324 · VA129710:55 AM Brisbane
9h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA942 · VA142311:05 AM Brisbane
7h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA946 · VA142312:05 PM Brisbane
6h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA328 · VA129712:55 PM Brisbane
7h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA950 · VA14231:05 PM Brisbane
5h20
6:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA332 · VA12971:55 PM Brisbane
6h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA334 · VA12972:55 PM Brisbane
29h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA334 · VA12912:55 PM Brisbane
18h55
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA342 · VA12974:55 PM Brisbane
27h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA342 · VA12914:55 PM Brisbane
16h55
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA7935:40 PM Brisbane
2h30
8:10 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA346 · VA12975:55 PM Brisbane
26h25
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA346 · VA12915:55 PM Brisbane
15h55
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ9346:35 PM Brisbane
2h25
9:00 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brisbane to Cairns by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23

Why should you book Brisbane to Cairns flights with Omio?

Jetstar Airways as well as Virgin Australia International offer flights services from Brisbane to Cairns.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brisbane to Cairns.

Why book with Omio vs Jetstar Airways?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Jetstar Airways, but also compare tickets for the likes of Virgin Australia International to find the best option for your trip from Brisbane to Cairns.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Jetstar Airways with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brisbane to Cairns.

Why book with Omio over Kayak or Edreams?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Virgin Australia International to find the best option for your trip from Brisbane to Cairns.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Brisbane to Cairns.

Airlines: Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from Brisbane to CairnsFind the best flights between Brisbane to Cairns with Omio's travel partners Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from $74 (€60). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

Jetstar Airways

About
Jetstar Airways is an Australian low-cost airline headquartered in Melbourne and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Qantas Group. Established in 2003, it began domestic passenger services in May 2004 and expanded to international services in December 2005. Jetstar operates an extensive domestic and international network, serving over 75 destinations with more than 4,000 flights a week. The airline utilizes a fleet primarily consisting of Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Jetstar is part of Qantas' two-brand strategy, positioning itself in the low-cost market while Qantas Airways focuses on the premium full-service market. The Jetstar Group also includes joint ventures like Jetstar Asia in Singapore and Jetstar Japan.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Jetstar Airways Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Jetstar Airways Price
$74 (€60)
Jetstar Airways frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (7kg) for Starter fares
Additional luggage
Up to 40kg additional checked baggage can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Starter fares are non-refundable. FareCredit available for cancellations made within 24 hours of departure on higher fare types
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to the end of the 32nd week. For multiple pregnancies, travel is permitted until the end of the 28th week. Medical clearance required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied on direct flights only. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Accessibility
Jetstar provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements
Pets
Pets are not allowed in the cabin or as checked baggage except for service animals
Entertaiment on board

Virgin Australia International

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Virgin Australia International Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Virgin Australia International Price
$130 (€105)
Virgin Australia International frequency
38 a day

FAQs: Brisbane to Cairns Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brisbane to Cairns by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cairns, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Brisbane to Cairns can start from as little as $74 (€60) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Brisbane to Cairns is $601 (€489) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Brisbane to Cairns is 2h 15m to travel the 863 miles (1390 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Brisbane to Cairns leaves at 12:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Brisbane to Cairns leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct flights a day from Brisbane to Cairns with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Brisbane to Cairns, you can count on Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International for the best way to get you to Cairns. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Brisbane and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Brisbane to Cairns generally leave from Brisbane and arrive in Cairns.Brisbane is 4 miles (7 km) away from Brisbane city centre and Cairns is 3 miles (5 km) from Cairns city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Brisbane to Cairns is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Brisbane and Cairns including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Brisbane nor Cairns are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Australia and Australia. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is no time difference between Brisbane and Cairns.
The best events to attend in Cairns include:
  • Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, a vibrant celebration of Indigenous art and culture featuring exhibitions, performances, and workshops
  • Cairns Festival, an annual event showcasing local talent through music, art, and food over ten days
  • Great Barrier Reef Festival, a community celebration highlighting the beauty of the reef with activities, entertainment, and environmental awareness.
The best holidays to experience in Cairns include:
  • Easter, mild weather and vibrant local festivities
  • Anzac Day, commemorative events and a strong sense of community
  • School Holidays (June-July), ideal for family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures.
The best season to visit Cairns is Winter or Spring. The best weather to explore Cairns is during June-November.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Brisbane to Cairns among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Travelers generally find using cards more convenient due to widespread acceptance and security, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or remote areas.
In Cairns, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Scams involving overpriced tours or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it’s best to book transportation and excursions through reputable providers. Additionally, when exploring natural attractions, travelers should follow safety guidelines due to wildlife hazards like jellyfish stings in the ocean and crocodile warnings near waterways.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular airports

Popular airports from Brisbane to Cairns

Most Brisbane to Cairns flights use the Brisbane to Cairns airport pair. Use this guide to compare Brisbane and Cairns airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Brisbane
Arrival airports in Cairns

Which Brisbane airport do flights to Cairns leave from?

Flights from Brisbane to Cairns depart from Brisbane. The airport is 4 miles (8 km) from Brisbane city centre at 11 The Circuit, Brisbane Airport QLD 4008, Australia.
Brisbane (BNE)11 The Circuit, Brisbane Airport QLD 4008, AustraliaWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Brisbane from Brisbane city centre

Brisbane is 7 km from Brisbane city centre. Public transport options include:

Airtrain, Domestic/Intertiol terminal, 20 minutes to city center

Brisbane airport facilities and services

Brisbane has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Various restaurants are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, including fast food and sit-down options like Hudsons Coffee and The Coffee Club.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering various banking services.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brisbane: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brisbane: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brisbane: Elevators, ramps, toilets.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels like the ibis Brisbane Airport Hotel are located within walking distance of the airport..

More about Brisbane

More options for your journey from Brisbane to Cairns

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Buses from Brisbane to Cairns
HomeFlightsBrisbane to Cairns Flights

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