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Cheap Flight Deals from Melbourne to Cairns

Discover our range of affordable one-way and round-trip flights from Melbourne to Cairns and kick-start your next adventure today!

  • One way
  • Return

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Best Time to Book Flights from Melbourne to Cairns

These price trend charts carefully monitor and predict how flight prices from Melbourne to Cairns will change. Keep a close eye on them to understand when the best time to buy your tickets is.

Displayed prices are calculated based on the cheapest average weekly prices of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Top Airlines Flying from Melbourne to Cairns

Compare prices from various providers below to understand which option best suits your travel needs, before enjoying a comfortable journey with a trusted airline from Melbourne to Cairns.

Jetstar Airways
From AU$ 122
Qantas Airways
From AU$ 242
Virgin Australia
From AU$ 254

Find more flights and airlines

Alternative Routes from Melbourne to Cairns

Searching for potential routes that might be cheaper and faster? There are a few alternative ways to get to Cairns from Melbourne which could help you save money and time.

  • Cheapest
    Jetstar Airways
    AVV
    10:25
    8h 10m
    1 transfer
    CNS
    17:35
    Avalon Airport - Cairns Airport
    Wed, Dec 11Jetstar Airways
    AU$ 158
  • Jetstar Airways
    MEL
    06:15
    3h 15m
    Nonstop
    CNS
    08:30
    Melbourne Airport - Cairns Airport
    Sun, Dec 22Jetstar Airways
    AU$ 534
  • Jetstar Airways
    MEL
    06:15
    3h 15m
    Nonstop
    CNS
    08:30
    Melbourne Airport - Cairns Airport
    Sun, Dec 22Jetstar Airways
    AU$ 534
    Find More Flights

FAQ

  • When are flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) the cheapest?

    Airlines adjust prices for flights from Melbourne to Cairns based on the date and time of your booking. By analyzing data from all airlines, on Trip.com, you can find the lowest flight prices on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
  • How much are flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) cost?

    According to Trip.com's data, the lowest price is around AU$ 433.
  • How long is the flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?

    It takes about 3 hours 24 minutes to fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS).
  • What is the transportation method from the main airport to downtown in Cairns?

    • The distance from Cairns Airport to downtown is about 5km, by taxi about 20 minutes.
  • What time does the earliest flight from Melbourne to Cairns depart?

    The earliest flight departs from Melbourne (MEL) at 06:00 and arrives in Cairns (CNS) at 09:20.
  • What time does the latest flight from Melbourne to Cairns depart?

    The latest flight departs from Melbourne (MEL) at 20:15 and arrives in Cairns (CNS) at 08:00.
  • What are the most popular airlines that fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?

  • What's the most popular airline for direct flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?

    Jetstar Airways operates 28 direct flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS).
  • How many airports in Cairns (CNS)?

    There are 1 airport(s) in Cairns (CNS): Cairns Airport.

How to find a cheap flight from Melbourne to Cairns

If you leave it until the last minute and forget to check some of the key information when booking tickets, prices can often end up skyrocketing. Below, you can find our top tips for getting the best value flights – from changing dates to chasing deals, there are plenty ways to keep your next trip affordable.
1
Book Early
Once prices are gone, they're gone. Lock in deals while you can!
2
Compare Flight Prices
Compare prices on travel agency and airline websites.
3
Look Out for Deals
Check airline and travel agency websites for latest flight deals
4
Check One-way Fares
Buying two cheap one-way flights can sometimes be a better deal than a round-trip.
5
Try Different Dates
Flying during the week, early in the morning, or late at night can help save money.
6
Use the Trip.com App
Save up to £10 per person when booking your flights on Trip.com

Flight Information from Melbourne to Cairns

Cheapest direct flight priceAU$ 107
Cheapest return ticket priceAU$ 192
Off-season for travelNovember
Peak season for travelAugust
Flight distance2,320.47km
Average flight time3 hours 24 minutes
Popular airlineJetstar Airways

Melbourne to Cairns by air

If you're looking to fly from Melbourne to Cairns or searching for flights between Melbourne and Cairns, we have you covered. Start your search for the most competitive airfares by entering your travel date above. Alternatively, continue reading to explore your journey in more detail. Find information about airlines, flight schedules, tips for finding affordable tickets, and much more.

Melbourne to Cairns airfares

Airfares from Melbourne to Cairns varies greatly from time to time. The price is influenced by various factors such as demand, travel date and time, seat availability, and airline pricing strategies. The airfares also change due to the travel classes of you choice, i.e. first class, business class and economy class.

How to find cheap flights from Melbourne to Cairns

Getting the cheapest Melbourne to Cairns flights requires some flexibility, persistence, and a bit of luck. Here are some tips to help you secure the best prices:

  • 1. Be flexible with your travel dates and time: airfares are generally cheaper in the early morning, late evening and weekdays.
  • 2. Be open to alternative airports.
  • 3. Consider booking outbound and inbound flights from different airlines - two one-way Melbourne to Cairns flight tickets may be cheaper than a round-trip ticket.
  • 4. Book connection flight from Melbourne to Cairns
  • 5. Look out for last minute flight deals.

Airlines from Melbourne to Cairns

Travellers have a few options to choose airlines that flying from Melbourne to Cairns. One standout choice is Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia, known for its full-service flights on this route. They place a high priority on passenger comfort and satisfaction, offering an extensive range of onboard services and amenities. On the other hand, Jetstar Airways have gained popularity as top low-cost carriers, providing competitive fares for budget-conscious travelers without sacrificing quality.

Melbourne to Cairns flight time

On average, the flight duration from Melbourne to Cairns is approximately 3 hours 25 mins, with the fastest flight completing the journey in just 3 hours 15 mins from Melbourne airport to Cairns airport.

Everything you need to know about Melbourne airport

Melbourne Airport, known as Tullamarine Airport (MEL), is Melbourne's main international airport. With four terminals offering a range of amenities like shopping, dining, and currency exchange, the airport serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting Melbourne to destinations worldwide. Convenient transportation options, including taxis, SkyBus shuttles, and public transportation, make traveling between the airport and city center a breeze. The distance of approximately 23 kilometers can be covered in about 25-30 minutes by car or 30-45 minutes by public transportation, depending on traffic conditions.

Arriving at Cairns airport

Nestled in the vibrant city of Cairns, Queensland, Cairns Airport (CNS) stands ready to connect you to the breathtaking wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Boasting a modern terminal, CNS efficiently handles both domestic and international flights. Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar are just a few of the prominent airlines operating from CNS, offering a wide range of flight options. The airport is conveniently located approximately 7 kilometers from the city center, and travelers can easily reach their destinations via airport shuttles, taxis, or rideshare services, with an average travel time of 15-20 minutes.

Book Melbourne to Cairns flights on Trip.com to unlock extra benefits

At Trip.com, we go beyond just finding cheap airfares from Melbourne to Cairns. We also offer additional perks and benefits to enhance your travel experience. When you book your flight, you gain access to exclusive discounts on hotels, car rentals, and airport transfers, helping you save even more on your journey. As a token of our appreciation, Trip.com rewards you with Tripcoins through our loyalty program, which can be redeemed for extra benefits on your future trips.