- Recommended
Cairns Museum
Regional museum on Cairns history, people, and tropical life. Worth visiting for clear exhibits on the city's development and culture.
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Journey information
Overview: Melbourne to Cairns flight
AustraliaAustralia
Flights from Melbourne to Cairns depart on average 51 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $91 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 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 |
Flights per day 51 |
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
The cheapest and fastest flights from Melbourne to Cairns
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$227
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$227
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 25 m
Flights on Sep 20
1
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 $227 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $227.
Fast flights
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 flights from Melbourne to Cairns, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct flights cover the 2324 km distance in an average of 3 h 25 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 25 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the longest flights will take 3 h 25 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.
7:25 AM3h25Melbourne10:50 AMCairns$2271One-way0 transfers
- 7:25 AM3h25Melbourne10:50 AMCairns$2271One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Melbourne to Cairns
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Melbourne to Cairns among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of $465 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 33m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $465, while a bus costs an average of $833.
Distance: 1444 miles (2324 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$465 Average price Cheapest | $833 Average price | $397 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 33m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 60h 5m Average total duration 59h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Melbourne to Cairns is a flight with an average price of $465.
This is compared to other travel options from Melbourne to Cairns:
A flight is $368 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Melbourne to Cairns costing on average $833.
The fastest way to travel from Melbourne to Cairns is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 33m.
Other travel options to Cairns take longer:
Bus takes on average 59h 35m.
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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Melbourne to Cairns among Omio's users.
Live departures
Melbourne to Cairns flight times
The table below shows live departures for Melbourne to Cairns flights for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:15 PM Melbourne | 3h15 | 10:30 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 PM Melbourne | 3h20 | 11:45 PM Cairns | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Melbourne to Cairns by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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.
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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 $91. 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
$91
Jetstar Airways frequency
24 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
$151
Virgin Australia International frequency
35 a day
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.
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.
Cheap plane tickets from Melbourne to Cairns can start from as little as $91 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Melbourne to Cairns is $465 ; 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 Melbourne to Cairns is 3h 15m to travel the 1444 miles (2324 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 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.
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.
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 (5 km) from Cairns city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Melbourne to Cairns is January.
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.
Since neither Melbourne 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 a time difference of 1 h between Melbourne and Cairns in winter.
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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Melbourne to Cairns among Omio's users.
The best season to visit Cairns is Winter or Spring. The best weather to explore Cairns is during June-November.
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 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..
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
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