- Recommended
Cairns Museum
Regional museum on Cairns history, people, and tropical life. Worth visiting for clear exhibits on the city's development and culture.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest flights from Melbourne to Cairns
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $180
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $393
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 3 h 15 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 3 h 23 m
- Flights on Nov 04
- 59
- Distance
- 2324 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Melbourne to Cairns is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Melbourne to Cairns will cost around $393 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $180.
Fast flights
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 59 flights from Melbourne to Cairns, including 5 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct flights cover the 2324 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the longest flights will take 3 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.
JQ9467:50 PM 3h20 Melbourne 10:10 PM Cairns $180 1 One-way 0 transfers- JQ34
6:15 AM 3h15 Melbourne 8:30 AM Cairns $180 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ948
3:25 PM 3h20 Melbourne 5:45 PM Cairns $202 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ448 · JQ892
8:35 PM 13h30 Melbourne 9:05 AM Cairns $275 1 One-way 1 transfer 
VA12974:35 PM 3h30 Melbourne 7:05 PM Cairns $292 1 One-way 0 transfers
- JQ34
6:15 AM 3h15 Melbourne 8:30 AM Cairns $180 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ946
7:50 PM 3h20 Melbourne 10:10 PM Cairns $180 1 One-way 0 transfers - JQ948
3:25 PM 3h20 Melbourne 5:45 PM Cairns $202 1 One-way 0 transfers - VA1293
8:35 AM 3h30 Melbourne 11:05 AM Cairns $364 1 One-way 0 transfers - VA1297
4:35 PM 3h30 Melbourne 7:05 PM Cairns $292 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Melbourne to Cairns flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns depart on average 53 times per day, taking around 4h 32m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $89 if you book in advance.
There are 6 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:55, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 1444 miles (2324 km) distance in 3h 15m. January 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 1444 miles (2324 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 |
Flights per day 53 |
Direct flights 6 |
Fastest flight 3h 15m |
First flight 12:55 AM |
Last flight 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Melbourne to Cairns trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Melbourne to Cairns.
Cheap plane tickets from Melbourne to Cairns can start from as little as $89 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Melbourne to Cairns is $450 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest flight from Melbourne to Cairns leaves at 12:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Melbourne to Cairns leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct flights a day from Melbourne to Cairns with Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
Live departures
Melbourne to Cairns flight times
The table below shows live departures for Melbourne to Cairns flights for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VA347 · VA771 | 6:50 PM Melbourne | 14h45 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ446 · JQ892 | 6:50 PM Melbourne | 15h15 | 9:05 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA347 · VA775 | 6:50 PM Melbourne | 17h10 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ530 · JQ950 | 7:00 PM Melbourne | 14h20 | 8:20 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ532 · JQ950 | 7:20 PM Melbourne | 14h00 | 8:20 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA349 · VA771 | 7:50 PM Melbourne | 13h45 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ946 | 7:50 PM Melbourne | 3h20 | 10:10 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA349 · VA775 | 7:50 PM Melbourne | 16h10 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ536 · JQ950 | 8:20 PM Melbourne | 13h00 | 8:20 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ448 · JQ892 | 8:35 PM Melbourne | 13h30 | 9:05 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ538 · JQ950 | 8:50 PM Melbourne | 12h30 | 8:20 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA353 · VA771 | 8:50 PM Melbourne | 12h45 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA353 · VA775 | 8:50 PM Melbourne | 15h10 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ782 · JQ966 | 9:20 PM Melbourne | 13h15 | 9:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, November 4 | |||||
| JQ500 · JQ954 | 6:00 AM Melbourne | 12h30 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ500 · JQ952 | 6:00 AM Melbourne | 8h30 | 1:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA303 · VA775 | 6:00 AM Melbourne | 6h00 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA303 · VA771 | 6:00 AM Melbourne | 27h35 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA803 · VA1413 | 6:00 AM Melbourne | 5h15 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ560 · JQ932 | 6:05 AM Melbourne | 12h10 | 5:15 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ560 · JQ930 | 6:05 AM Melbourne | 6h15 | 11:20 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ34 | 6:15 AM Melbourne | 3h15 | 8:30 AM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA307 · VA771 | 6:40 AM Melbourne | 26h55 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA307 · VA775 | 6:40 AM Melbourne | 5h20 | 11:00 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ502 · JQ952 | 6:45 AM Melbourne | 7h45 | 1:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ502 · JQ954 | 6:45 AM Melbourne | 11h45 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA309 · VA771 | 7:10 AM Melbourne | 26h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ504 · JQ954 | 7:20 AM Melbourne | 11h10 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ504 · JQ952 | 7:20 AM Melbourne | 7h10 | 1:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA313 · VA771 | 8:10 AM Melbourne | 25h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ506 · JQ954 | 8:15 AM Melbourne | 10h15 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA1293 | 8:35 AM Melbourne | 3h30 | 11:05 AM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA317 · VA771 | 8:40 AM Melbourne | 24h55 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA319 · VA771 | 9:10 AM Melbourne | 24h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA319 · VA783 | 9:10 AM Melbourne | 5h50 | 2:00 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ510 · JQ954 | 9:20 AM Melbourne | 9h10 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA833 · VA1419 | 10:00 AM Melbourne | 5h55 | 2:55 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ562 · JQ932 | 10:05 AM Melbourne | 8h10 | 5:15 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ512 · JQ954 | 11:10 AM Melbourne | 7h20 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ516 · JQ954 | 11:40 AM Melbourne | 6h50 | 5:30 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA327 · VA785 | 12:10 PM Melbourne | 5h30 | 4:40 PM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA849 · VA1413 | 2:00 PM Melbourne | 21h15 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA331 · VA771 | 2:10 PM Melbourne | 19h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA853 · VA1413 | 3:00 PM Melbourne | 20h15 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA333 · VA771 | 3:10 PM Melbourne | 18h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| JQ948 | 3:25 PM Melbourne | 3h20 | 5:45 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA855 · VA1413 | 3:30 PM Melbourne | 19h45 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA859 · VA1413 | 4:00 PM Melbourne | 19h15 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA337 · VA771 | 4:10 PM Melbourne | 17h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA863 · VA1413 | 4:30 PM Melbourne | 18h45 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA1297 | 4:35 PM Melbourne | 3h30 | 7:05 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| VA867 · VA1413 | 5:00 PM Melbourne | 18h15 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA341 · VA771 | 5:10 PM Melbourne | 16h25 | 8:35 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA869 · VA1413 | 5:15 PM Melbourne | 18h00 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
| VA871 · VA1413 | 5:30 PM Melbourne | 17h45 | 10:15 AM Cairns | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Melbourne to Cairns flights with Omio?
Jetstar Airways as well as Virgin Australia International offer flights services from Melbourne to Cairns.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Melbourne 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 Melbourne 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Melbourne 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 Melbourne to Cairns.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Melbourne to Cairns.
Airlines: Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from Melbourne to CairnsFind the best flights between Melbourne to Cairns with Omio's travel partners Virgin Australia International, Jetstar Airways from $89. 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
3h 15m
Cheapest Jetstar Airways Price
$89
Jetstar Airways frequency
23 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
3h 25m
Cheapest Virgin Australia International Price
$148
Virgin Australia International frequency
31 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Melbourne and Cairns
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a flight from Melbourne 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 Melbourne and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 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.
Complete guide to Cairns
Things to do in Cairns
Discover the best of Cairns — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cairns trip today.
- Recommended
Cairns Art Gallery
Modern gallery featuring changing exhibitions by local and national artists. A strong stop for contemporary art in the city center.
- Recommended
Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park
Cultural center and gallery presenting Yidinji traditions, dance, and art. Valuable for learning about Aboriginal culture near Cairns.
- Must visit
Cairns Esplanade
Waterfront promenade with lagoon, public art, gardens, and walking paths. A classic Cairns visit for relaxing, strolling, and city views.
- Must visit
Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
Popular public swimming lagoon on the waterfront. Great for cooling off safely and enjoying the Esplanade atmosphere in the city center.
- Recommended
Cairns Botanic Gardens
Botanic gardens with rainforest plant collections, shaded paths, and easy access to nearby walks. A favorite for nature close to town.
- Gluten-free
Barramundi
Barramundi is a prized local fish, often grilled or pan-fried. It is a Far North Queensland staple valued for its mild flavor and fresh tropical seafood identity.
- Gluten-free
Mud Crab
Mud crab from tropical north Queensland is usually served simply cooked to highlight its sweet meat. It is a classic regional seafood choice in Cairns.
- Gluten-free
Tiger Prawns
Tiger prawns are commonly served fresh, grilled, or chilled with sauce. They reflect Cairns' strong connection to local reef and coastal seafood.
Prawn Star
Busy seafood venue by the marina serving reef fish, prawns, oysters, and platters in a relaxed waterfront atmosphere.
Ochre Restaurant
Refined waterfront dining focused on tropical North Queensland produce and seafood in an elegant, modern setting on the Cairns esplanade.
CC's Bar and Grill
Polished dining room known for premium steaks, local seafood, and a broad wine list in central Cairns.
Australian dollar (A$)
Moderate for Australia. Hotels can be pricey in peak season, but casual meals and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- A$15-25 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- A$30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- A$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- A$4.50-6 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Translink
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- A$0.50
- Day pass
- A$1.00
To the city center
Cairns Airport, Cairns -> Cairns City, Cairns
- Distance
- 7 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Tap on and tap off with the same contactless card or device, or buy a paper ticket onboard Cairns buses. Standard Translink fares in Cairns are A$0.50 single and A$1.00 daily.
- Route 100 links Cairns Airport and Cairns City. Use the Translink app for real-time trip planning and service updates.
Plan your visit to Cairns
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cairns.
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.
FAQs: Melbourne to Cairns Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Melbourne 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Melbourne and Cairns including taking a train, flight, and bus.
popular airports
Popular airports from Melbourne to Cairns
Most Melbourne to Cairns flights use the Melbourne to Cairns airport pair. Use this guide to compare Melbourne and Cairns airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Melbourne
Arrival airports in Cairns
Which Melbourne airport do flights to Cairns leave from?
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns depart from Melbourne. The airport is 3 miles (6 km) from Melbourne city centre at Melbourne Airport, Departure Dr, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia.
Melbourne (MEL)Melbourne Airport, Departure Dr, Melbourne Airport VIC 3045, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Melbourne from Melbourne city centre
Melbourne is 6 km from Melbourne city centre. Public transport options include:
SkyBus, Melbourne City Express, 30 minutes to Southern Cross Station
Melbourne airport facilities and services
Melbourne 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 in terminal 2, including Asian and Italian cuisines.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Melbourne: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Melbourne: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Melbourne: Ramps, assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels within walking distance, including ParkRoyal Melbourne Airport..
Which Cairns airport do flights from Melbourne arrive at?
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns arrive at Cairns. Cairns is 3 miles (6 km) from Cairns city centre.
Cairns (CNS)Airport Ave, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
City-centre transport
Getting to Cairns from Cairns city centre
Cairns is 5 km from Cairns city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus line 110, Cairns Airport stop, 7 km
Cairns airport facilities and services
Cairns 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: Restaurants are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, offering options like fast food and cafes.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, including major banks like ANZ and Commonwealth Bank.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cairns: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cairns: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cairns: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels such as the Cairns Airport Hotel within walking distance..
Airports for flights from Melbourne to Cairns
See which airports are used for flights between Melbourne and Cairns, including airport details.
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns generally leave from Melbourne and arrive in Cairns.Melbourne is 3 miles (6 km) away from Melbourne city centre and Cairns is 3 miles (6 km) from Cairns city centre.
Most popular flights from Melbourne
More options for your journey from Melbourne to Cairns
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Cairns and Melbourne
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
