Name: Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight - Cairns - 40 Minutes
Price: 239.00 AUD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (52 reviews)

Highlights

Soar above the Great Barrier Reef on a 40 minute scenic flight from Cairns
Admire spectacular views of Green Island, Arlington Reef, Middle Cay and more
Relax in air conditioned comfort with a guaranteed window seat for every passenger

Soar above the Great Barrier Reef on a 40 minute scenic flight from Cairns. Enjoy a guaranteed window seat, stunning reef views and expert commentary.

What's included?

40 minute scenic flight
Experienced local pilot
Guaranteed window seat in a new air conditioned aircraft

See one of the world's greatest natural wonders from an unforgettable perspective as you take to the skies above the Great Barrier Reef on a 40 minute scenic flight. Departing from Cairns, this spectacular scenic flight showcases the reef's vibrant colours, intricate coral formations and idyllic islands in all their glory.

From your guaranteed window seat, watch as turquoise waters give way to sprawling reef systems, sand cays and secluded islands. Along the way, your experienced local pilot will share fascinating commentary while pointing out iconic sights including Green Island, Arlington Reef and Vlasoff Cay. If you're lucky, you may even spot marine life such as turtles, rays, dugongs, sharks or seasonal whales from above.

Perfect for visitors seeking a truly memorable Queensland experience, this aerial adventure offers breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities at every turn.

Important information

Session Length

The flight duration is 40 minutes
Flights depart at 10am, 11am and 12pm
Please arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure

Guidelines

Maximum passenger weight is 115kg; weights must be provided at the time of booking
Passengers will be weighed on the day. If your actual weight exceeds your declared weight by 5kg or more, boarding may be refused and no refund will be provided.
Infants under two years fly free when seated on a parent's lap; infant weight must be advised at booking
A $10 fuel levy per person is payable directly to the operator upon check in

Cancellation

Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience

Numbers on the Day

Maximum of seven participants.

Weather

All flights are subject to weather, aircraft availability and air traffic control. In the event that the experience provider cancels/postpones any flight(s) due to adverse weather conditions, they will attempt to reschedule flight or a full refund will be given.

Other Info

Please note: Due to rising fuel costs, a $10 fuel levy per person is payable upon check in.

Location

This experience departs from Daintree Air Services, General Aviation Terminal, Tom McDonald Drive, Cairns Airport, Aeroglen QLD 4870.

Reviews

4.8

52 reviews

5 stars 45

4 stars 6

3 stars 0

2 stars 0

1 star 1

Unforgettable! Just like the pictures!

Amanda 18 August 2025

Very glad I did this. Unbelievable views and really amazing friendly and knowledgeable staff. Went alone and was fortunate enough to meet another singleton- staff sat us together and as we were both nervous it was nice to have someone to sit with. I think the pilots were Harvey and Cameron? Couldn’t recommend highly enough. As someone scared of heights I didn’t feel as scared as I expected and just enjoyed the beautiful views. Thankyou!!

Customer Experience

Hi Amanda, it is always great to hear about the wonderful experiences our customers have, thank you for sharing!

18 August 2025

Great to see this marvel by air

Andy 1 June 2025

Everyone should see the reef by air :) - take a camera with good zoom if you can, you can even see turtles. Pilot was polite, courteous, and generous with his time. Definitely reccommend this to anyone.

Customer Experience

Hi Andy, we're so pleased to hear you enjoyed your experience. We appreciate you taking the time to leave your feedback!

3 June 2025

What an amazing experience!

Milena 4 June 2024

This might has to be one of my favourites experiences ever! Seeing the reef from above is not less magical than swimming in it. The flight, the commentary of pilot Thomas, the views - it was an overall amazing experience.

Mya

Hi Milena, your feedback is important to us, and we’re so glad to hear that you enjoyed your experience!

4 June 2024

amazing experience

Maria 4 April 2024

it was a wonderful experience. although my partner and i got a little dizzy when we landed, the experience was totally worth it. the view is indescribable. I loved that i paid for this

Mya

Hi Maria, thank you for your feedback. We appreciate your kind words and are thrilled to hear about your positive experience!

9 April 2024

In. cred. i. ble.

katrina 2 March 2024

this was amazing! Professional from start to finish. Relaxed, funny, incredibly skilled team and a perfectly planned route. Huge shoutout to Jesse (the pilot) and Luke (in the office). I’ve never experienced anything like this and I highly recommend it :)

Mya

Hi Katrina, so pleased to see you enjoyed your Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight, we appreciate the time you have taken to share your experience!

4 March 2024

Photo Opportunities A Plenty

Jennifer 12 February 2024

An awesome experience with our Pilot Jesie who was very informative and knowledgeable about the reef which just made it even more enjoyable. Would highly recommend this trip over the reef. Stunning just Loved it - Thank you Daintree Air Services.

The view from above was amazing

Sue 6 December 2023

Highly recommend this tour. 7 seater fixed wing plane. Felt incredibly safe. Excellent viewing. The colors of the water and reef were amazing. Informative spiel from the pilot. A fabulous alternative to a crowded full day boat tour. Excellent value.

Amazing experience from Cairns

Simon 12 November 2023

Joe was a great pilot! He made every effort to accommodate my parents who don’t understand English. The tour was absolutely amazing. I wish it was longer

40 Minute Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight

Alex 6 November 2023

Had a great flight and the pilot (Thomas) was a great host and ensured that all in the plane had great views of the reefs and come away with more knowledge.

Seeing how big and beautiful Great Barrier Reef is

Lynette 8 October 2023

Our pilot and commentary was great , The scenery of the Great Barrier Reef from up high,was mind blowing.