A turquoise lagoon with a white sandbar surrounded by clear blue water.

CA $279 Cheap Flights from Darwin (DRW) to Cairns (CNS)

View CA $279 flight on Fri, Nov 27, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Darwin International Airport (DRW) to Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our rewards
    Sign in

Cheap flights from Darwin (DRW) to Cairns (CNS)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at CA $279 for one-way flights and CA $830 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetstar
Sat, Aug 22 - Wed, Sep 9
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $830 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $830
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sat, Aug 22 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at CA $830 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Aug 28 - Wed, Sep 9
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $832 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $832
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at CA $832 found 5 hours ago
Airnorth Regional
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Oct 13
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $837 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $837
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Airnorth Regional flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Tue, Oct 13, priced at CA $837 found 5 hours ago
Qantas Airways
Tue, Sep 15 - Tue, Oct 6
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $838 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $838
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Tue, Sep 15 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Tue, Oct 6, priced at CA $838 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Tue, Sep 15 - Fri, Oct 2
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $839 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $839
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Tue, Sep 15 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Fri, Oct 2, priced at CA $839 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Tue, Sep 15 - Mon, Sep 21
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $840 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $840
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Tue, Sep 15 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Mon, Sep 21, priced at CA $840 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Aug 28 - Fri, Sep 11
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $841 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $841
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Fri, Sep 11, priced at CA $841 found 5 hours ago
Jetstar
Mon, Sep 7 - Mon, Sep 21
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $842 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $842
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Mon, Sep 7 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Mon, Sep 21, priced at CA $842 found 5 hours ago
Qantas Airways
Wed, Aug 26 - Thu, Sep 10
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $843 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $843
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Wed, Aug 26 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Thu, Sep 10, priced at CA $843 found 5 hours ago
Virgin Australia
Thu, Jul 23 - Thu, Aug 13
DRW
Darwin
CNS
Cairns
CA $913 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
CA $913
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Thu, Jul 23 from Darwin to Cairns, returning Thu, Aug 13, priced at CA $913 found 5 hours ago

Alternative airports near Cairns

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Cairns Intl. CNS. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city centre is 8 minutes. Flights from CA $1,202
CNS
Cairns Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city centre8 min
Flights from CA $1,202

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) cost?
One-way flights typically cost between £198 and £789 and return flights often range between £198 and £789. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Anaa (AAA) to Toronto, ON (YYZ-Pearson Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
Which airlines fly direct from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
Enter DRW to CNS and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) will differ from traveller to traveller. If you like to fly early, QF offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, QF typically offers the lowest fares. VA offers the most daily flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.), which is brilliant if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
There are approximately 2 nonstop flights per day from Darwin Intl. (DRW) to Cairns Intl. (CNS). For even more choice, look at flights that include layovers, as you'll find around 13 connecting flights per day. Some common connection points include Tullamarine (MEL), (BNE), and Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD).
What is the earliest flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) typically departs at approximately 12:10 AM local time, operated by JQ. This is a seasonal service active in January, February, March, November, and December. An early departure like this can help maximise your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
You'll typically find the most flights from Darwin Intl. (DRW) to Cairns Intl. (CNS) on a Monday, with around 14 flights available. This gives you plenty of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) are in the early morning, from 12am to 3am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time. Many major carriers, including Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive at your destination early, giving you more time to enjoy your day in Cairns.
How long does it take to fly from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from DRW to CNS takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 1,041 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 12 hours 50 minutes longer than direct options. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for DRW to CNS flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How do I earn miles on a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Cairns from Darwin Intl. (DRW)?
From Darwin Intl. (DRW), you can fly into Cairns Intl. (CNS) to reach Cairns. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Tullamarine (MEL), Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD), ADL (ADL) before reaching Cairns. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.)?
If you booked your Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) to Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Darwin Intl.
Destination airport
Cairns Intl.
Airlines serving
Airnorth Regional, Jetstar, Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia
Roundtrip price
CA $830
Distance
1665 km
Average flight time
3 hours 30 mins

Book with confidence

Darwin to Cairns Flights

The easy way to book your flights from Darwin to Cairns 

With Expedia, it’s simple to find and book flights to Cairns from Darwin whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. Enter your travel dates, hit search, and choose your flight from 20 airlines that cover this route. There are nonstop flights to Cairns Intl., too.  

Choose your preferred carrier and cabin class with the advanced search tool and select your ideal departure time. Then, if you want, you can see just nonstop or refundable flights. And if you’re traveling last minute, just enter the date to check out flights from Darwin to Cairns today, tomorrow, or this week.  

 

Save dollars with cheap flights from Darwin Intl., DRW to Cairns Intl., CNS 

Sort your search results by price to find great deals on your flight from Darwin to Cairns—you get all your cheapest options first. Grab yourself a bargain now—the lowest price on flights to Cairns from Darwin currently is just CA $830 rising to CA $913.  

Here are more money-saving tips: 

  • Fly in August when flight prices are normally at their lowest 
  • Book about a month to 6 weeks before you travel for the best prices to Cairns  
  • Avoid peak season and weekends when flights can cost more
  • Early morning and late-night flights are sometimes cheaper, so try varying your travel times 
  • One surefire way to save money on your flight is to book your flight and hotel together with Expedia. Sometimes, the savings are so large that the flight is basically free! 

 

Reasons to choose Expedia for your flight to Cairns from Darwin 

Whatever your destination, budget, or reason to travel, in just one quick search, you can choose from loads of flights, airlines, and cabin classes. The filters make it quick and easy to find your ideal flights, and if you choose one of the flexible options, you won’t be charged to change your flight. So book your flight to Cairns with Expedia today.

Darwin to Cairns Flights

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

*Available to Expedia members.