Get a unique taste of the Great Barrier Reef on a 40-minute scenic flight above the reef system, departing from Cairns Airport. Enjoy aerial views of Green Island and then fly over the north Queensland coast en route back to the mainland.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details. Learn more
Duration 40 minutes: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English

Highlights

Experience the Great Barrier Reef from above
Get stunning views from the guaranteed window seats of a high-wing aircraft
Listen to a complimentary in-flight commentary from your pilot

Full description

Experience bird's eye views of the Great Barrier Reef aboard a high-wing airplane with guaranteed window seats on a 40-minute scenic flight from Cairns Airport. Make your way to the Cairns Airport to climb aboard the panoramic flight. Then, experience the ultimate views of the reef system and surrounding landscape, including Green Island, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef. Discover for yourself why the reef is considered one of the "7 Natural Wonders of the World. "Marvel at the contrast of colors as you fly over the Coral Sea and look down on some of the 2,900 reefs and 900 islands that make up the reef system. Get an informative commentary from your pilot as you fly over Arlington Reef, Upolu Reef, Michaelmas Reef, Oyster Reef, Double Island and Palm Cove.

Includes

40-minute scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef
Guaranteed window seats
In-flight pilot commentary
Modern fleet of high-wing aircraft

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must fill out a travel information form

Meeting point

Check-in is 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure at the GSL Aviation office.

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Important information

Know before you go

A 100% cancellation fee applies for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours
All flights are subject to pilot discretion, weather, aircraft availability and air traffic control. In the event your flight is cancelled or postponed due to adverse weather conditions, the supplier will attempt to reschedule your flight or a full refund will be given. The local supplier will endeavor to achieve on-time performance, although accepts no responsibility for missing flights or tour connections arising from operational delays. Flight time listed is approximate and may vary depending on aircraft type
Children under 3 years old are considered infants and can travel free of charge on a paying adult's lap. Adult pricing applies on all flights for children over 3 years old

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 94 reviews

Review summary

Guide
5/5
Transportation
5/5
Value for money
4.7/5
Safety
4.6/5

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Thank you to our pilot Steve, and the great ground crew of Pearl and Chris. This was such a great experience, well organised and with safety always paramount. Even though the plane was smaller than I thought it was going to be, I felt safe the whole time. The views were beautiful and the 40 minutes went so fast. Best way to see the reef is from the air. Highly recommended this tour.

January 24, 2021

I must admit I didn’t realise it would be a plane, got it into my head it was a helicopter! Having said that it was a smooth, comfortable flight and seeing the Reef from the air was amazing. The good thing was the pilot went around things sometimes a couple of times so both sides got to see the view. Sometimes low so we could see nature at its best. Amazing.

December 7, 2020

The scenic flight was one of the most amazing experiences I had so far in my life. The aircraft is very comfortable and as each one of the passengers has a window seat it guarantees the best view ever. I was even luckier as I got the front seat, right next to the pilot and had an even more privilege view. I would like to thank GSL Aviation Cairns for providing us such great opportunities and all the people there for their friendliness and taking good care of their guests. A special thanks to Nick, the pilot of my aircraft that took us through and gave us the best tour guide.

July 18, 2020

From Cairns: 40-Min Scenic Reef Window Seat Airplane Flight

From Cairns: 40-Min Scenic Reef Window Seat Airplane Flight

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