Cairns Airport is just 7 km from the CBD — one of the shortest airport-to-city distances in Australia. Here are all your transport options, from a 50-cent public bus to door-to-door private transfers.
Cairns Airport (CNS) sits just 7 km from the Cairns CBD — making it one of the most affordable airport-to-city journeys in Australia. There are several ways to make the trip depending on your budget, group size, and final destination.
Public Bus — Translink Route 100
From 23 November 2026, Translink operates Route 100 directly between Cairns Airport and Cairns City for just 50 cents each way. The service runs every 30 minutes from 4:00 am to 10:30 pm, seven days a week. Pay by cash, credit card, or debit card on board. More information: translink.com.au
Shared Shuttle — Tropic Wings
Tropic Wings runs a daily shared airport coach service connecting Cairns Airport to Cairns City, Palm Cove, and Port Douglas. The service departs multiple times per day and suits travellers headed further north as well as those staying in the city. Private transfers are also available. Book online at tropicwings.com.au
Shared Shuttle — Coral Sea Coaches
Coral Sea Coaches operates a daily shuttle and private transfer service to the Cairns CBD and Northern Beaches. Note that shuttle pricing is per group, not per person — for example, a group of four travelling one way to the city costs approximately $55 in total. Book online at coralseacoaches.com.au
Shared Shuttle — Cairns Airport Shuttle
Cairns Airport Shuttle offers shared bus and private transfer options to Cairns City and the Esplanade, departing regularly throughout the day. Book in advance online at cairnsairportshuttle.net
Taxi — Cairns Taxis
Cairns Taxis is the only regulated taxi service for the Cairns region. Taxi ranks are located directly outside both the T1 International and T2 Domestic terminals — no booking required. Fares are regulated. More info at cairnstaxis.com.au
Ride Share — Uber
Uber and other ride-share services operate in Cairns. Dedicated pick-up zones are located outside both T1 (International) and T2 (Domestic) terminals. Request a ride on demand through the Uber app.
Whichever option you choose, all services drop you in or near the Cairns CBD within 15–20 minutes. If you have questions about getting around once you arrive, our local team is happy to help.