Cairns International Airport (CNS)

There are three official car parks to choose from at Cairns Airport. The T1 International Car Park, T2 Domestic Car Park and the T2 Covered Car Park. Each offers easy access to the terminals and flexible booking options (subject to terms and conditions). It’s also a good idea to book your parking online in advance to secure your spot and access the best rate.  

Cairns Airport has convenient Pick-up and Drop-off zones located directly outside both T1 and T2. Need a few extra minutes? Enjoy 10 minutes of free parking in the T1 International Car Park and T2 Domestic Car Park or wait in the free Standby Zone for up to 30 minutes.  

Cairns Taxis is the only regulated taxi company servicing the region and both T1 and T2 have a designated taxi rank at the front of the building. Dedicated rideshare Pick-up and Drop-off zones are also available outside both terminals. 

Planning a Tropical North Queensland road trip? Car rental companies, including AVIS, Budget, Europcar and Sixt, can be found in the T1 and T2 Arrivals Halls at Cairns Airport. Talk to your Travel Expert about organising car hire for your trip or book it yourself online before you leave. 

Exemplar Coaches and Limousines look after shuttle services between Cairns Airport and the city centre, Palm Cove and Port Douglas. Need a hand organising your airport transfers? Talk to your Travel Expert before you set off! 

Good news! The T1 International Terminal and T2 Domestic Terminal are connected by a convenient covered walkway, and it only takes about five minutes to walk between the terminals. 

A number of international airlines fly into and out of Cairns Airport, including Air New Zealand, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Singapore Airlines. A more complete list can be found on the page above. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Cairns Airport at least two to three hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through any necessary security screenings before boarding. Keep in mind that you may experience longer lines and delays during busy travel periods, so check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are a number of transport options available from Cairns Airport to the city centre, including shuttle services, taxi and rideshare options or car rentals. 

Yes, there is one international airport lounge at Cairns Airport, Escape Lounges. Access to airport lounges may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, credit card benefits or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information on how to access the airport lounges at Cairns Airport. 

While there are no hotels within the airport itself, there are plenty of great places to stay while exploring Cairns. If you’re looking for showers or a quiet space to relax while you wait for your flight, check the opening times, facilities available and whether you’re able to access any of the airport lounges at Cairns Airport. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Cairns booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. 

Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Cairns Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

There are two terminals at Cairns Airport, the T1 International Terminal and the T2 Domestic Terminal. Your departure terminal will be listed with your flight information, but don’t worry if you do find yourself in the wrong terminal! You can walk between T1 and T2 in roughly five minutes.  

Yes, short-term and long-term parking options are available at Cairns Airport, and there are three official car parks on site. Check with the airport directly for more information on booking airport parking and the current rates. We’d recommend booking online in advance to secure your spot and access the best rate. 

Travelling with the little ones? There are dedicated Parents' Rooms available throughout the airport. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Cairns Airport? You’re in luck! There are plenty of stores available for you to browse before your flight, including well-known brands like LEGO®, Billabong and Merino Collection, as well as duty-free shops and dining options. Check Cairns Airport’s website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Cairns Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you're booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!