Cairns Airport (CNS)


Cairns Airport is located only 7 kilometres from Cairns and is the main gateway for many people travelling to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Cairns Airport Terminals

Cairns Airport is open 24 hours a day and has two terminals, separated into Domestic and International Terminals. Although the terminals are in separate buildings, they are only 200 metres apart, and transfers between terminals is a small walk under a covered walkway.

The Domestic Terminal services flights from Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia.

The International Terminal handles flights from Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Continental and Air Nuigini.

Transport to Cairns Airport

Transportation to and from Darwin Airport is easy with access to car hire, taxis and shuttle buses.

Hire Cars at Cairns Airport Car Hire

At Cairns Airport car hire counters can be found in the arrivals area at the northern end of the Domestic Terminal and in the Arrivals Hall of the International Terminal. The following rental car providers are located at Cairns Airport:

Taxis at Cairns Airport

Taxi ranks are outside the International and Domestic Terminals. Black and White Taxi is the only taxi service in Cairns, so it is recommended that you pre-book your taxi before arrival to guarantee a cab.

Cairns Airport Shuttles

Many hotels and backpacker hostels operate courtesy buses to and from Cairns Airport, so check with your hotel prior to arrival if they offer this service. Other shuttle services provide transport to hotels in Cairns, Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. There is no need to pre-book and shuttle buses depart from in front of the arrivals area of the International and Domestic Terminals.

Parking at Cairns Airport

There are automatic car parks located next to the Domestic and International Terminals. Both car parks operate 24 hours a day and offer short and long term parking.

Services at Cairns Airport

Find a range of services at Cairns Airport, from shopping and dining to currency exchange.

Shopping at Cairns Airport

There is a large duty and tax free shopping area within Cairns Airport where you can find a mix of Australian and international products at great prices.

Food & Drink at Cairns Airport

There are a variety of food and drink options at Cairns Airport, located in the Domestic and International Terminals. Cafes, restaurants and snack bars offer a range of local and international cuisines for all travellers.

Currrency Exchange at Cairns Airport

For travellers needing to exchange currency can find outlets within the baggage reclaim area and the arrivals hall of the International Terminal and in the departure lounge of the Domestic Terminal.