$211 Cheap Flights from Mackay (MKY) to Cairns (CNS)

Popular airlines from Mackay, QLD (MKY) to Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)

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Cheap Flights from Mackay to Cairns (MKY-CNS)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $211 for one-way flights and $465 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Qantas Airways
Qantas Airways
Virgin Australia
Flights from Mackay (MKY) to Cairns (CNS)
Origin airport
Mackay
Destination airport
Cairns Intl.
Roundtrip price
$464
Distance
371 mi

Mackay to Cairns Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Mackay to Cairns

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Mackay to Cairns

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

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 Mackay to Cairns in 2025. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $211 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 Mackay to Cairns 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 Mackay to Cairns 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 long does it take to fly from Mackay Airport to CNS?
A direct flight with Skytrans takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Hop on the 4:00PM flight from Mackay Airport (MKY) and land at Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) at 5:30PM. Get your hands on a fantastic deal on this and other routes when you use Expedia to book your journey.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Mackay Airport to Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) last minute?
When it’s time to book your flights, being prepared pays dividends. While you could find a deal on a Mackay Airport to Cairns Airport flight at the last minute, fares usually don’t get cheaper as the departure date nears. Based on flight pricing and demand studies in 2022, we have found that the sweet spot to lock in a domestic flight is between 28 – 35 days ahead. For international trips it’s between three and four months.
What airports do you fly into for Cairns from Mackay?
Mackay to Cairns flights touch down at Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS). The terminal is about 3 mi northwest of the center of Cairns. Grab an irresistible airfare with Expedia and then prepare yourself for an adventure.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Mackay Airport to CNS?
Between 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM is the busiest period for Skytrans flights departing from Mackay Airport to Cairns Airport. Our useful tip? Leave early. With air traffic yet to build up, your odds of catching a delay-free flight are better.
Can I change the date of my flight from MKY to Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS)?
Easily make changes to your Mackay Airport (MKY) to Cairns Intl. Airport (CNS) journey through the Expedia Trips portal. Before making any amendments, browse the rules and conditions in your itinerary to learn what the carrier will allow you to do and if fees apply. Some carriers charge a change fee per person, plus any difference in fare prices. But if you booked in the last 24 hours, you may be able to cancel for free and organize new flights. You can also head to our Customer Service portal for more useful advice and to chat with our Virtual Agent.

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