Sydney SYD to Cairns CNS flight with Jetstar Airways

Thu, Jul 02
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Journey information

Overview: Sydney to Cairns flight

AustraliaAustralia
AustraliaAustralia
Icon of flight

Flights from Sydney to Cairns depart on average 28 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $82 (€68) if you book in advance.

There are 5 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 1218 miles (1961 km) distance in 3h 0m. July 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
1218 miles (1961 km)
Average flight duration
3h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
$82 (€68)
Flights per day
28
Direct flights
5
Fastest flight
3h 0m
First flight
5:45 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
2 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 Sydney to Cairns

Showing times and prices for Jul 02

Cheapest price

$184

Average price

$383

Fastest journey

3 h 10 m

Average duration

3 h 11 m

Flights per day

61

Distance

1961 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Sydney to Cairns will cost around $383 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $184.

Fast flights

Of the 61 flights that leave Sydney for Cairns onThu, Jul 02, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 02 the direct flights cover the 1961 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .

On Thu, Jul 02 the longest flights will take 3 h 15 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 AirwaysJQ956
    7:15 PM3h10
    Sydney
    10:25 PMCairns
    $1841One-way
    0 transfers
  • Virgin Australia InternationalVA973 · VA799
    6:00 PM5h20
    Sydney
    11:20 PMCairns
    $2101One-way
    1 transfer
  • Jetstar AirwaysJQ784 · JQ808
    6:05 AM10h55
    Sydney
    5:00 PMCairns
    $2151One-way
    1 transfer
  • Jetstar AirwaysJQ950
    6:10 AM3h10
    Sydney
    9:20 AMCairns
    $2171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Jetstar AirwaysJQ814 · JQ934
    9:20 AM11h40
    Sydney
    9:00 PMCairns
    $2361One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Sydney to Cairns

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Sydney to Cairns among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $82. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $82, and a train costs an average of $3919.

Distance: 1218 miles (1961 km)

Compare flight with

Most popular
Flight
Train
Bus
Driving

$163

Average price

Cheapest

$3919

Average price

$330

Average price

$354

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

50h 48m

Average total duration

50h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

45h 30m

Average total duration

45h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

26h 42m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Sydney to Cairns is a flight with an average price of $163 (€134).

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

A flight is $167 (€138) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Sydney to Cairns costing on average $330 (€272).

A flight is $3756 (€3095) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sydney to Cairns costing on average $3919 (€3229).

The fastest way to travel from Sydney to Cairns is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 5m.

Other travel options to Cairns take longer:

Bus takes on average 45h 0m.

Train takes on average 50h 18m.

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

Live departures

Sydney to Cairns flight times

The table below shows live departures for Sydney to Cairns flights for tomorrow, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Jetstar AirwaysJQ503 · JQ9426:30 AM Sydney
8h10
2:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA905 · VA7756:30 AM Sydney
4h40
11:10 AM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ505 · JQ9447:00 AM Sydney
11h35
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ505 · JQ9427:00 AM Sydney
7h40
2:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA812 · VA12937:30 AM Sydney
5h30
1:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA917 · VA7938:00 AM Sydney
12h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA14138:10 AM Sydney
3h15
11:25 AM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Jetstar AirwaysJQ507 · JQ9448:15 AM Sydney
10h20
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ507 · JQ9428:15 AM Sydney
6h25
2:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ515 · JQ9448:50 AM Sydney
9h45
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA824 · VA12979:00 AM Sydney
11h20
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA925 · VA7939:00 AM Sydney
11h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA412 · VA15059:15 AM Sydney
6h10
3:25 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ814 · JQ9349:20 AM Sydney
11h40
9:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ509 · JQ9449:45 AM Sydney
8h50
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA931 · VA79310:00 AM Sydney
10h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ95210:30 AM Sydney
3h10
1:40 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA832 · VA129710:30 AM Sydney
9h50
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA933 · VA79310:30 AM Sydney
9h40
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ816 · JQ93410:35 AM Sydney
10h25
9:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ511 · JQ94410:35 AM Sydney
8h00
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA838 · VA129712:00 PM Sydney
8h20
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ513 · JQ94412:05 PM Sydney
6h30
6:35 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ513 · JQ94612:05 PM Sydney
10h35
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ517 · JQ94612:35 PM Sydney
10h05
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA141912:40 PM Sydney
3h15
3:55 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA943 · VA7991:00 PM Sydney
10h20
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA943 · VA7931:00 PM Sydney
7h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ535 · JQ9461:15 PM Sydney
9h25
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA846 · VA12972:00 PM Sydney
6h20
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ818 · JQ9342:20 PM Sydney
6h40
9:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ519 · JQ9462:20 PM Sydney
8h20
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA951 · VA7933:00 PM Sydney
5h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA850 · VA12913:00 PM Sydney
18h50
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA951 · VA7993:00 PM Sydney
8h20
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA14233:10 PM Sydney
3h15
6:25 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Jetstar AirwaysJQ9543:15 PM Sydney
3h10
6:25 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Jetstar AirwaysJQ828 · JQ9343:30 PM Sydney
5h30
9:00 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA957 · VA7994:00 PM Sydney
7h20
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ521 · JQ9464:05 PM Sydney
6h35
10:40 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA866 · VA12975:00 PM Sydney
27h20
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA965 · VA7995:00 PM Sydney
6h20
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA866 · VA12915:00 PM Sydney
16h50
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA868 · VA12915:15 PM Sydney
16h35
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA868 · VA12975:15 PM Sydney
27h05
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA872 · VA12915:45 PM Sydney
16h05
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA872 · VA12975:45 PM Sydney
26h35
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA874 · VA12976:00 PM Sydney
26h20
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA973 · VA7996:00 PM Sydney
5h20
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA973 · VA7936:00 PM Sydney
26h10
8:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA874 · VA12916:00 PM Sydney
15h50
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA973 · VA7816:00 PM Sydney
19h10
1:10 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA876 · VA12916:15 PM Sydney
15h35
9:50 AM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA876 · VA12976:15 PM Sydney
26h05
8:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Virgin Australia InternationalVA977 · VA7996:30 PM Sydney
4h50
11:20 PM Cairns1 transfer
Jetstar AirwaysJQ9567:15 PM Sydney
3h10
10:25 PM Cairns0 transfersDirect
Virgin Australia InternationalVA993 · VA7718:30 PM Sydney
12h10
8:40 AM Cairns1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sydney 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
Jul 02
Fri
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08

Why should you book Sydney to Cairns flights with Omio?

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

Airlines: Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International from Sydney to CairnsFind the best flights between Sydney to Cairns with Omio's travel partners Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International from $82 (€68). 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 Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€68)
Jetstar Airways frequency
10 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 Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$213 (€176)
Virgin Australia International frequency
34 a day

FAQs: Sydney to Cairns Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sydney 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 Sydney to Cairns can start from as little as $82 (€68) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Sydney to Cairns is $163 (€134) ; 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 Sydney to Cairns is 3h 0m to travel the 1218 miles (1961 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 Sydney to Cairns leaves at 5:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Sydney to Cairns leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct flights a day from Sydney to Cairns with Jetstar Airways, Virgin Australia International. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Sydney 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 Sydney and Cairns and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Sydney to Cairns generally leave from Sydney and arrive in Cairns.Sydney is 1 miles (2 km) away from Sydney city centre and Cairns is 3 miles (5 km) from Cairns city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Sydney to Cairns is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sydney and Cairns including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Sydney 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 Sydney 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.
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 Sydney 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 Sydney to Cairns

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

Departure airports in Sydney
Arrival airports in Cairns

Which Sydney airport do flights to Cairns leave from?

Flights from Sydney to Cairns depart from Sydney. The airport is 1 miles (2 km) from Sydney city centre at Sydney Airport, Mascot NSW 2020, Australia.
Sydney (SYD)Sydney Airport, Mascot NSW 2020, AustraliaWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Sydney from Sydney city centre

Sydney is 2 km from Sydney city centre. Public transport options include:

Train, Airport Link, Domestic and Intertiol stations, 10-15 minutes to city center

Sydney airport facilities and services

Sydney 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 gourmet options like McDold's and Wolfgang Puck.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport, with a simple login process. ATMs are located in both domestic and intertiol terminals, offering multiple currency options.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Sydney: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Sydney: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Sydney: Elevators, ramps, assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels within walking distance, including Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel..

More about Sydney

More options for your journey from Sydney to Cairns

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

Return journeys for flights from Cairns to Sydney
Buses from Sydney to Cairns
More information on flights to Sydney
HomeFlightsSydney to Cairns Flights

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