$95 Cheap Flights from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

View $95 flight on Sun, Aug 16, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) to Melbourne Airport (MEL)

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Cheap Flights from Cairns to Melbourne (CNS-MEL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $95 for one-way flights and $172 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Jetstar
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$172 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$172
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $172 found 5 days ago
Jetstar
Tue, Sep 8 - Wed, Sep 9
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$190 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$190
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Tue, Sep 8 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $190 found 4 days ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$197 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$197
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $197 found 5 days ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$206 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$206
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $206 found 5 days ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$212 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$212
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $212 found 5 days ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 7 - Mon, Mar 8
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$215 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$215
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 7 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Mon, Mar 8, priced at $215 found 18 hours ago
Jetstar
Sun, Mar 7 - Mon, Mar 8
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$222 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$222
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select Jetstar flight, departing Sun, Mar 7 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Mon, Mar 8, priced at $222 found 18 hours ago
Virgin Australia
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$224 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$224
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $224 found 5 days ago
Virgin Australia
Sun, Mar 14 - Sun, Mar 21
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$226 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$226
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Virgin Australia flight, departing Sun, Mar 14 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Sun, Mar 21, priced at $226 found 5 days ago
Qantas Airways
Tue, Sep 8 - Wed, Sep 9
CNS
Cairns
MEL
Melbourne
$239 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$239
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Qantas Airways flight, departing Tue, Sep 8 from Cairns to Melbourne, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $239 found 4 days ago

Alternative airports near Melbourne

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

Select flight to Tullamarine MEL. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 20 minutes. Flights from $451
MEL
Tullamarine
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center20 min
Flights from $451

What you need to know for your flight from Cairns Intl. to Tullamarine

Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL) at a glance

Travel between Cairns (CNS) and Melbourne (MEL) with a variety of airlines operating this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for full-service options or cheap flights from Cairns, you can compare itineraries that suit your budget and travel schedule. Discover Melbourne's iconic attractions and neighborhoods while finding key details for your flight from Cairns International Airport to Tullamarine Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,400 miles (2,250 km)
  • Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $80–$300, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Cairns to Melbourne, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. A popular choice for layovers is Brisbane Airport (BNE), which typically has a convenient 50-minute connection. This allows you to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to create the best itinerary for your needs.

  • Jetstar: This budget airline provides direct flights on this route, with one-way prices generally falling between $80 and $230. Jetstar represents about 56% of the departures, with an overall travel duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Virgin Australia: Another low-cost option, Virgin Australia offers non-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $115 to $375. It accounts for roughly 35% of departures on this route, with a travel time of 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Qantas Airways: Known as a full-service airline, Qantas Airways provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually between $175 and $375. It makes up around 9% of departures, with a standard non-stop flight time of 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Travelers have the option to enhance their journey from Cairns to Melbourne by upgrading to business class, with Virgin Australia providing exceptional service on this route.

Best time to fly from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Cairns to Melbourne are January, March, and December, when peak temperatures in Melbourne reach up to 68.7°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 53.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $124). Flight availability peaks in January, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. July and August have the fewest flights, with approximately 8 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $124, roughly 25% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: February typically offers an average one-way fare of around $139.
  • Most flight options: January has the highest number of flights from Cairns to Melbourne, with approximately 13 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January68.7°F (20.4°C)High13$214
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Average9$139
March64.8°F (18.2°C)High10$151
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Average9$154
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Low9$124
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Average9$142
July48.9°F (9.4°C)Low8$202
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Low8$177
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Average11$155
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Average12$193
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Average9$191
December64.8°F (18.2°C)High11$155

*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 Melbourne (MEL)

  • Cairns to Melbourne (CNS-AVV): Avalon Airport (AVV) lies approximately 32 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL), providing convenient access to Melbourne.
  • Cairns to Geelong (CNS-GEX): Geelong Airport (GEX) is located about 48 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL), connecting travelers to the vibrant Geelong area.
  • Innisfail to Melbourne (IFL-AVV): Innisfail Airport (IFL) is roughly 50 miles from Cairns International Airport (CNS), while Avalon Airport (AVV) is around 32 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL).

How to find the best prices for flights from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Cairns to Melbourne is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. 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. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM often provide lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesdays typically offers cheaper rates, although Sundays remain the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Tullamarine Airport from Cairns International Airport

Melbourne welcomes travelers from Cairns with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Melbourne efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Melbourne, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tullamarine Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tullamarine 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 Tullamarine Airport, several transport options are conveniently accessible by car. Broadmeadows Station, a metro station, is about 4.9 miles from the airport, while Strathmore Seaport, a seaport, is located around 6.8 miles away. Additionally, Essendon Station, a train station, is approximately 8.5 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $95 and cheap return flights from $172 Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $85 and $1448, and roundtrip flights usually range from $197 to $1391. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
November is the cheapest month to fly from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL), with average round-trip fares around $283. This is about 19% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand typically decreases in late spring. Other budget-friendly months include May and December.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Choose from 3 airlines operating direct flights from CNS to MEL:

  • Jetstar operates around 25 direct flights from CNS to MEL every week
  • Virgin Australia operates around 14 direct flights from CNS to MEL every week
  • Qantas Airways operates around 8 direct flights from CNS to MEL every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Jetstar is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $162. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
To find a cheap flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine), 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The best airline to fly with from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) 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 also offers the most daily flights from CNS to MEL, 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
When flying from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL), November and December are the best months to consider. Return flights average around $283, making them quite affordable. November and December are popular due to the pleasant weather, allowing you to enjoy Melbourne's vibrant atmosphere while also taking advantage of lower fares.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
There are approximately 7 nonstop flights per day from Cairns Intl. (CNS) to Tullamarine (MEL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The earliest flight from Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) usually departs at around 12:55 AM, operated by Virgin Australia. This seasonal service is available in June and July, allowing you to start your journey to Melbourne early. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Cairns, QLD (CNS) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 31% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Virgin Australia, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day in Cairns before heading to Melbourne.
How long does it take to fly from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Direct flights from CNS to MEL usually take about 3 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 1,438 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 3 hours to your journey. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
Business class seats are offered on the CNS to MEL route with Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia.
How much is a business class flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL) typically costs between $1,211 - $2,557. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $375 - $1,237. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) 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 Melbourne from Cairns Intl. (CNS)?
If you're planning to travel to Melbourne from Cairns Intl. (CNS), you can fly into Tullamarine (MEL) Some flights may connect through major hubs like BNE (BNE), ASP (ASP) before reaching Melbourne. 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) Melbourne 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 Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?
If you booked your Cairns, QLD (CNS-Cairns Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) 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
Tullamarine
Airlines serving
Jetstar, Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia
Roundtrip price
$172
Distance
1437 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 26 mins

Book with confidence

Cairns to Melbourne Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Cairns to Melbourne

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 Melbourne are during the month of March. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Cairns to Melbourne with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Cairns to Melbourne

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Cairns to Melbourne: 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 Melbourne

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 Melbourne in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $95 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne 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.

 

Cairns to Melbourne Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

How to find the latest flight deals from Cairns (CNS) to Melbourne (MEL)?

Last updated:

This page highlights the latest flight deals from Cairns to Melbourne (CNS to MEL), including one-way and roundtrip options from multiple airlines. The deals featured here are updated regularly, so you’ll always find the most up-to-date prices and best available flights for your trip from Cairns to Melbourne.

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