With the Great Barrier Reef on one side and The Daintree Rainforest on the other, Cairns is sandwiched between two of Australia’s most famed World Heritage sites. Explore tropical lagoons, trek through ancient rainforests or island hop around the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is unforgettable.
View our Cairns travel guide
Flights from Ayers Rock (Uluru) (AYQ) to Cairns (CNS)
Reasons to fly with Qantas
Food and drinks on every flight
Enjoy a meal or snack every time you fly with us, as well as a range of refreshments including beer and wine.
Baggage included in every fare
Pack more into your trip with checked and carry-on baggage included in every fare.
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Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn and use Qantas Pointsin Australia and around the world, and earn Status Credits on eligible flights.
Visiting from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Cairns
Flight information
Ayres Rock to Cairns flight information
The approximate flight time for flights from Ayres Rock to Cairns is 10 hours and 5 minutes.
When to visit
A laid-back tourist town and gateway to Far North Queensland, Cairns (pronounced ‘cans’) experiences hot summers, mild winters and two very distinct seasons – wet and dry. It’s warm all year round and even during the wet season, Cairns is all about boardshorts and the tropical outdoors.
Arrival information
What is the main airport called?
Cairns Airport (CNS)Opens external site in a new window. It is an international airport in Far North Queensland. There are two terminals: Terminal 1 - international airport and Terminal 2 - domestic airport.
Arriving at Cairns Airport
Once greeted by the friendly staff at Cairns Airport, there are several different transport options available to get you on your way.
Getting into Cairns
The easiest way to reach the centre of Cairns is via taxi, rideshare, hire cars and buses which can be accessed at terminal. For a more affordable alternative, the cheapest way to get from Cairns Airport (CNS) to Cairns is to take a shuttle which costs $19 - $40 and takes 8 min for the 6km trip.
Getting around Cairns
Walking is a great way to see the Cairns CBD and when you want to explore the surrounding areas, hiring a car or taking the local public transport is the best option. You may wish to join one of the many four wheel drive tours that can pick you up and drop you back off at your doorstep, taking you up to the beautiful rainforests or join a boat tour out to the reef.
Departure information
Fly from Ayers Rock
Once you’ve purchased your tickets from Ayers Rock, there are a few things you should know to ensure you’re as prepared as possible for your upcoming trip.
What is the main airport called?
Ayers Rock Airport (Connellan. AYQ). Located 6km from Ayers Rock Resort and 16km from Uluru. Complimentary shuttle buses meet most flights and transfer you to your accommodation. There is no taxi service available in the area. Set in the Northern Territory, Ayers Rock Airport is one of the nation’s busiest regional airports, and the main travel hub for visitors wanting to explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. There is one main terminal, which services commercial airlines, as well as private charter aircraft.
Baggage allowance
Passengers on Qantas flights from Ayers Rock are allocated checked baggage. If you need more luggage, you can purchase an additional baggage allowance online prior to departure.
Checking in
Ensure you check-in online or via the Qantas App before you arrive at the airport from 24 hours before departure.
Why Qantas
The benefits of flying Qantas
Fly with Qantas and enjoy a comfortable journey from take-off to touch down.
Included baggage
Enjoy peace of mind knowing baggage is included on all Qantas flights. Find out all you need to know about checked baggage.
Can I cancel my flight booking due to COVID-19?
If your flights were booked through a travel agency or third-party website, please contact them directly to discuss your options.
If your plans have changed or you no longer wish to travel, visit Manage Booking to change your travel dates or cancel your flight. Visit Booking changes for more information.
If we’ve cancelled your Qantas flight, including your Classic Flight Reward booking, wait to hear from us before changing your booking. We’ll contact anyone whose flight has been impacted as soon as possible.
Important Information
Disclaimer: ^ You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: ++ Status Credits are earned on eligible Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld® member and oneworld connect® airlines only - see the Airline Earning Tables and Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions for details. Status Credits may not be earned on some fare types and booking classes.
Disclaimer: +Meals, beverages, entertainment and offerings vary between flights and cabins. Alcohol offered during select flight times on select flights.