$221 Cheap Flights from Cairns (CNS) to Darwin (DRW)

View $221 flight on Mon, Aug 10, 2026Opens in a new window

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

Cheap Flights from Cairns to Darwin (CNS-DRW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $221 for one-way flights and $504 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Qantas Airways
Fri, May 1 - Fri, May 8
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$504 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$504
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Fri, May 1 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Fri, May 8, priced at $504 found 2 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$541 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$541
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $541 found 6 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$553 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$553
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $553 found 6 hours ago
Airnorth Regional
Fri, May 1 - Fri, May 8
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$563 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$563
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Airnorth Regional flight, departing Fri, May 1 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Fri, May 8, priced at $563 found 2 hours ago
Qantas Airways
Fri, May 1 - Fri, May 8
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$570 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$570
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Fri, May 1 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Fri, May 8, priced at $570 found 2 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$574 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$574
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $574 found 6 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$585 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$585
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $585 found 6 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, May 1 - Fri, May 8
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$587 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$587
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, May 1 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Fri, May 8, priced at $587 found 2 hours ago
Jetstar
Fri, Sep 11 - Sat, Sep 12
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$589 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$589
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $589 found 6 hours ago
Virgin Australia
Fri, May 1 - Fri, May 8
CNS
Cairns
DRW
Darwin
$647 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$647
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Fri, May 1 from Cairns to Darwin, returning Fri, May 8, priced at $647 found 2 hours ago

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $221 and cheap return flights from $504 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $234 and $1112, and return flights often range between $606 and $2059. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from CNS to DRW is May 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
Qantas Airways offers around 8 weekly direct flights from CNS to DRW.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
Jetstar is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Cairns (CNS) to Darwin (DRW), with round-trip tickets starting from around $457. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Darwin, NT (DRW) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Qantas Airways offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Qantas Airways typically offers the lowest fares. Virgin Australia offers the most daily flights from CNS to DRW, 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
There are approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from Cairns Intl. (CNS) to Darwin Intl. (DRW). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Darwin International Airport (DRW) typically departs at around 12:55 AM local time, operated by Virgin Australia. This seasonal service is available in July, allowing you to maximize your time in Darwin. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Cairns Intl. (CNS) to Darwin Intl. (DRW) are in the late morning, from 9am to noon. About 41% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Virgin Australia, Qantas Airways, and others, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day in Cairns and arrive in Darwin with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from CNS to DRW typically takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, covering approximately 1,041 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 1 hour to your travel time. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
Business class seats are offered on the CNS to DRW route with Virgin Australia and Qantas Airways.
How much is a business class flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
A non-stop, one-way business class flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Darwin, NT (DRW) is usually around $857 - $969 per adult. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin from Cairns Intl. (CNS)?
From Cairns Intl. (CNS), you can fly into Darwin Intl. (DRW) to reach Darwin. Some flights may connect through major hubs like BNE (BNE), Kingsford Smith Intl. (SYD), Tullamarine (MEL) before reaching Darwin. 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.) Darwin 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 Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin Intl.)?
If you booked your Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Darwin, NT (DRW-Darwin 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.
Destination airport
Darwin Intl.
Roundtrip price
$503
Distance
1040 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 35 mins

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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