The Cairns to Brisbane route connects Cairns International Airport (CNS) in AU with Brisbane International Airport (BNE) in AU. This short-haul flight covers approximately 865 miles (1392 km) with a typical flight time of 1h 57m. This route is served by 4 airlines: Alliance Airlines, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and others. AirportRoutes has tracked 17 daily flights on this route.
The flight from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Brisbane (BNE) is a popular domestic route in Australia, covering a distance of 865 miles (1392 km). With approximately 187 weekly flights operated by 4 airlines, it's a well-serviced connection point for international travelers arriving in Cairns and heading further south. The flight typically takes around 2 hours, making it a quick and convenient way to travel between these two major Queensland cities. Many travelers choose this route to connect to international flights from Brisbane or to explore the diverse attractions of Southeast Queensland after experiencing the Great Barrier Reef and other natural wonders of Northern Queensland.
For the best deals, book your flight well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) for potentially lower fares. At Cairns Airport, allow ample time to navigate security, especially during busy periods. Brisbane Airport is well-signposted; familiarize yourself with the terminal layout to streamline connections. On board, expect standard domestic flight service with options to purchase snacks and drinks. A travel hack: bring an empty water bottle to fill after security to stay hydrated. Keep an eye on your baggage allowance to avoid any unexpected fees.
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, offers a vibrant mix of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Top attractions include South Bank Parklands, a 17-hectare oasis on the Brisbane River; the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA); and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Explore the trendy Fortitude Valley for live music and nightlife, or wander through the historic Paddington with its charming boutiques. Don't miss out on the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and modern Australian fare. A must-try is Moreton Bay bugs, a unique local crustacean.
The best time to fly depends on your priorities. Brisbane enjoys a subtropical climate, with warm weather year-round. Peak travel times are during school holidays (December-January, April, and July) and during major events like the Brisbane Festival in September. For better value and pleasant weather, consider flying during the shoulder seasons (March-May or September-November). The winter months (June-August) offer mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
YBCSCNSBrisbane International Airport
YBBNBNE4
Operators17
Daily Flights865
Miles1h 57m
Flight Duration
| Airline | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|
| Alliance Airlines |
UTY
|
QQ
|
| Virgin Australia |
VOZ
|
VA
|
| Jetstar |
JST
|
JQ
|
| Qantas |
QFA
|
QF
|
| Day | Flights Observed | Frequency | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 36 | 14% |
|
| Tuesday | 40 | 15% |
|
| Wednesday | 23 | 9% |
|
| Thursday | 26 | 10% |
|
| Friday | 51 | 20% |
|
| Saturday | 65 | 25% |
|
| Sunday | 19 | 7% |
|
Pattern Analysis
| Airline | Flight Numbers | Aircraft Type | Typical Time | Days Active | Last Seen | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alliance Airlines
UTY
/ QQ
|
UTY1881 UTY1883 UTY1889 UTY1885 UTY1887 | E190 | 09:20 9:20 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 30, 2026 | Active |
|
Jetstar
JST
/ JQ
|
JST929 JST931 JST933 JST935 | A320 | 09:55 9:55 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 30, 2026 | Active |
|
Qantas
QFA
/ QF
|
QFA7313 QFA713 | B738 | 14:50 2:50 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 28, 2026 | Active |
|
Virgin Australia
VOZ
/ VA
|
VOZ770 VOZ776 VOZ784 VOZ786 VOZ780 | B738 | 09:15 9:15 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 30, 2026 | Active |
| Departure Time | Operator | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:15 9:15 AM | Virgin Australia |
VOZ
|
VA
|
| 09:20 9:20 AM | Alliance Airlines |
UTY
|
QQ
|
| 09:55 9:55 AM | Jetstar |
JST
|
JQ
|
| 14:50 2:50 PM | Qantas |
QFA
|
QF
|
Time Information
Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (UTC).