Far North Queensland is about to get even closer to one of the world’s most iconic holiday destinations. From 3 November 2025, Cairns-based airline East Air will launch year-round passenger services between Cairns and Hamilton Island – linking two Great Barrier Reef gateways in just 1 hour and 20 minutes.
The new service will operate three times a week – on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays – offering a seamless connection for both locals and visitors.
For more than 15 years, East Air has specialised in tailored charter flight services. This new step into scheduled passenger services marks an exciting milestone, bringing back a route that was once in high demand. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, flights between Cairns and Hamilton Island supported more than 20,000 travellers each year.
By reinstating this service, East Air is doing more than just filling a gap in the market. It’s creating new opportunities for international visitors to fly directly into Cairns and begin their Queensland holiday here in the Far North, before continuing on to the Whitsundays – without the need to first stop in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne.
The timing couldn’t be better. The Whitsundays are set to host sailing events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, shining an even bigger spotlight on this world-famous region. At the same time, the service supports the Queensland Government’s Destination 2045 strategy, which focuses on reinvigorating island resorts, encouraging regional dispersal, and strengthening air connectivity.
Both Cairns Airport and Hamilton Island Airport play vital roles in Queensland’s visitor economy. Cairns welcomes around five million passengers annually, supporting more than $4.5 billion in visitor expenditure, while Hamilton Island Airport facilitates nearly 500,000 passenger movements each year – key to the 930,000+ visitors who experience the Whitsundays.
With East Air’s new service, FNQ is set to reap the rewards of stronger connections, increased visitation, and fresh opportunities for tourism and business alike.
From November, the reef will feel a little closer – and Far North Queensland a lot more connected.
