$100 Cheap Flights from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
Popular airlines from Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) to Sydney Airport (SYD)
Qantas AirwaysQantas Airways
Virgin AustraliaVirgin Australia
JetstarJetstar
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Cheap Flights from Cairns to Sydney (CNS-SYD)
Alternative airports near Sydney
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
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Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) at a glance
Travel between Cairns (CNS) and Sydney (SYD) with a range of airlines operating on this domestic short-haul route. You can choose from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the best itinerary that suits your budget, schedule, and travel preferences while you explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Sydney. Check out the key details for flights from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD).
- Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,200 miles (1,930 km)
- Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $75–$330, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines frequently selected for flights from Cairns to Sydney, including both non-stop and one-stop options. Many travelers opt for convenient layovers through Brisbane Airport (BNE), typically around 45 minutes, allowing you to tailor your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to discover the ideal itinerary.
- Jetstar: This budget airline provides non-stop flights and is responsible for around 50% of departures on this route. One-way tickets generally range from $75 to $285, with a total travel time of about 3 hours.
- Virgin Australia: Offering both non-stop and one-stop flights, this low-cost airline makes up roughly 41% of departures on the route. One-way fares are typically between $100 and $375, with non-stop flights taking about 3 hours.
- Qantas Airways: As a full-service airline, Qantas features non-stop service on this route, accounting for around 9% of departures. Fares for one-way travel usually fall between $145 and $790, with a complete journey time of 3 hours.
Travelers have the option to enhance their journey from Cairns to Sydney by upgrading their flight. Both Virgin Australia and Qantas Airways provide business class service for this route.
Best time to fly from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Cairns to Sydney are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Sydney reach up to 73.4°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 61.2°F. For better deals, June usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $123. Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: June usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $123, roughly 27% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $135.
- Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from Cairns to Sydney, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | High | 17 | $198 |
| February | 72.7°F (22.6°C) | High | 15 | $167 |
| March | 70.9°F (21.6°C) | High | 14 | $153 |
| April | 66.4°F (19.1°C) | Average | 13 | $196 |
| May | 61.2°F (16.2°C) | Low | 11 | $135 |
| June | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | Average | 12 | $123 |
| July | 55.9°F (13.3°C) | Average | 14 | $175 |
| August | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | Low | 12 | $153 |
| September | 61.2°F (16.2°C) | Low | 12 | $141 |
| October | 64.6°F (18.1°C) | Average | 13 | $187 |
| November | 67.6°F (19.8°C) | Average | 16 | $174 |
| December | 70.3°F (21.3°C) | Average | 18 | $237 |
*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.
Alternative routes from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
- Cairns to Sydney (CNS-RSE): Located approximately 7 miles from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), Rose Bay Seaplane Base Airport (RSE) offers stunning aerial views.
- Bloomfield to Sydney (BFC-SYD): Bloomfield Airport (BFC) is about 75 miles from Cairns International Airport (CNS), providing a gateway to Sydney's vibrant city life.
- Cairns to Newcastle (CNS-NTL): Williamtown Airport (NTL) is roughly 87 miles from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), serving as a convenient stop on your journey.
How to find the best prices for flights from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Cairns to Sydney is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book at least 2 months ahead. Flights departing in the evening (6 PM to 12 AM) often have lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Monday typically offers cheaper options, while Friday is the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Kingsford Smith International Airport from Cairns International Airport
Sydney welcomes travelers from Cairns with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sydney efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sydney, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Kingsford Smith International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Kingsford Smith International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
- Public transportation: From Kingsford Smith International Airport, travelers can easily access nearby transport options: International Airport Station, a metro station, is just a short 0.1 miles away on foot, while Sydney Arncliffe Station, a train station, is about 1.2 miles from the airport by car. For those needing to travel by sea, Sydney Seaport is located approximately 6.7 miles away by car.
Cairns to Sydney Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Cairns to Sydney
On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Cairns to Sydney are during the month of March. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Cairns to Sydney with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Cairns to Sydney
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Cairns to Sydney: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.
How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Cairns to Sydney
Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Cairns to Sydney in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $100 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.
Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Cairns to Sydney flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.
You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Cairns to Sydney airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.
*Terms apply.
Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $100 and cheap return flights $200 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $88 to $2096, and return flights typically cost between $235 and $1493. 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CNS to SYD is March when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
Choose from 3 airlines operating direct flights from CNS to SYD:
- Jetstar operates around 22 direct flights from CNS to SYD every week
- Virgin Australia operates around 17 direct flights from CNS to SYD every week
- Qantas Airways operates around 9 direct flights from CNS to SYD every week
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
Virgin Australia is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) with round-trip tickets starting from around $205. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Sydney, NSW (SYD) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Jetstar offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Virgin Australia typically offers the lowest fares. Virgin Australia offers the most daily flights from CNS to SYD, which is great 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
On average, there are around 7 nonstop flights per day from Cairns Intl. (CNS) to Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Cairns Intl. (CNS) to Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD) typically departs at around 5:45 AM, operated by Jetstar. This flight is available from June to October, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a full day in Sydney. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 33% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Qantas and Virgin Australia, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to enjoy your morning in Cairns before heading to Sydney.
How long does it take to fly from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from CNS to SYD takes around 3 hours, with the route covering approximately 1,226 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
Business class seats are offered on the CNS to SYD route with Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia.
How much is a business class flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Cairns (CNS) to Sydney (SYD) typically costs between $1,587 - $2,190. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $466 - $1,023. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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 Sydney from Cairns Intl. (CNS)?
From Cairns Intl. (CNS), you can fly into Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD) to reach Sydney. Some flights may connect through major hubs like BNE (BNE) before reaching Sydney. 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.) Sydney Vacation Packages 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 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith Intl.)?
If you booked your Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Sydney, NSW (SYD-Kingsford Smith 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 | Cairns Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Sydney Airport |
Distance | 1,225 miles away |
Airlines serving | Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia, Jetstar |
Popular airline | Qantas Airways |
Roundtrip price | $200 |
Average flight time | 2 hours 59 mins |