Direct (non-stop) flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns City (CNS)
Find comprehensive flight information, schedules, and booking details for direct flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL), AU to Cairns City (CNS), AU. This popular route is operated by 3 airlines, offering multiple daily departures.• Flight Duration: 3h 15m - 4h 20m (average flight time)• Distance: 1445 miles (2325 km) (air miles between airports)• Daily Flights: 5-7 flights (scheduled departures per day)
Melbourne Airport (MEL)
AU
Cairns City (CNS)
AU
FLIGHT TIME
3h 15m - 4h 20m
FLIGHT DISTANCE
1445 miles (2325 km)
3h 15m - 3h 30m
06:15
21:25
1445 miles (2325 km)
August
3 (Show)
48
Terminal 1 & Terminal 2 (Melbourne Airport (MEL))
Terminal 1 (Cairns City (CNS))
Flight Schedule
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Airlines Operating This Route
Jetstar (JQ), Qantas (QF), Virgin Australia (VA)
Click any airline to view their specific flight schedules, policies, and route details for this connection. You can also explore flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL) and flights to Cairns City (CNS).
Route Insights
Route Demand
With 48 weekly flights, this route maintains steady demand throughout the week, providing travelers with frequent scheduling options.
Route Importance
Multiple airlines compete on this route (3 carriers), indicating its significance in connecting Melbourne (MEL) and Cairns (CNS). This competition often leads to competitive pricing and multiple daily departure options.
Best Time to Fly
Best Value Period
August typically offers the best value for travelers, with lower average fares compared to peak travel periods.
Price Trends
Price variation throughout the year is significant, with Aug being the most affordable month and prices increasing during peak travel seasons.
Distance & Duration Explained
Route Distance
At 1445 miles (2325 km), this is an ultra-long-haul route between Melbourne (MEL) and Cairns (CNS), requiring larger aircraft and extended flight times.
Flight Duration
Flight duration averages 3h 15m - 4h 20m, with actual times ranging from 3h 15m - 3h 30m depending on aircraft type, wind conditions, and routing.
Airline Comparison
Available Airlines
Travelers have 3 airline options on this route: Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia. Each airline offers different schedules, pricing, and service levels to meet various travel needs.
Flight Frequency
Jetstar operates the most flights on this route with 3 daily departures, followed by Virgin Australia and Qantas.
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Best Time to Visit & Travel Planning
Cheapest Day
Cheapest Month
Average Fare
$168
Travel Planning Tips for Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns City (CNS)
- Best Day to Book
Thursday typically offers the lowest fares for flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns City (CNS). Consider booking on this day for potential savings.
- Best Month to Travel
February is generally the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns City (CNS). Plan your trip during this month for the best deals.
- Average Flight Price
The average fare for flights from Melbourne Airport (MEL) to Cairns City (CNS) is approximately $168. Prices may vary based on booking time, season, and airline.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many flights operate from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
There are 6 direct flights operating from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS). Approximately 5-7 flights daily.
Which airlines operate flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
3 airlines operate on this route: Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia.
How long is the flight from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
The flight duration from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) is approximately 3h 15m - 4h 20m.
What is the distance from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
The distance from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) is 1445 miles (2325 km).
What is the flight time range for this route?
Flight times on this route range from 3h 15m - 3h 30m.
What are the earliest and latest flight departure times?
The earliest flight departs at 06:15 and the latest flight departs at 21:25.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
August is typically the cheapest month to fly on this route.
How many flights operate per week on this route?
Approximately 48 flights operate per week from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS).
What types of aircraft operate on this route?
This route is served by Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737-800 (winglets) Passenger/BBJ2, Airbus A320.
What is the average flight price from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
The average flight price for a round-trip ticket from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) is approximately $201 USD. Prices can vary based on booking time, season, and airline.
When is the best time to book flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) for the lowest prices?
August is typically the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS). Booking in advance and avoiding peak travel seasons can help you find better deals.
How many airlines offer flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
3 airlines offer direct flights from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS), providing travelers with multiple options for scheduling and pricing.
How far is Cairns (CNS) from Melbourne (MEL)?
The distance from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) is 1445 miles (2325 km). This is a long-haul flight route.
How long does it take to fly from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS)?
The flight time from Melbourne (MEL) to Cairns (CNS) is approximately 3h 15m - 4h 20m. Actual flight duration may vary based on weather conditions, aircraft type, and routing.
What city does Cairns (CNS) serve?
Cairns (CNS) serves Cairns, AU.