Today marks an exciting milestone for Hamilton Island, the Whitsundays, and Far North Queensland, the long-awaited return of direct flights between Cairns and Hamilton Island.
This new connection reopens a vital link between two of our state’s most spectacular destinations and places our region right back at the heart of Queensland tourism.
Now, visitors can fly straight into Cairns, explore the tropical north, and then continue seamlessly on to Hamilton Island without the need to travel south.
This connection means great things for our local tourism operators, small businesses, and communities. Every new flight brings with it new jobs, new visitors, and new investment into our region.
Already, international visitor spending in Far North Queensland has reached $1.2 billion this year up almost 25%. The addition of this new route will only help build on that momentum, driving continued growth for local tourism and hospitality industries.
As Queensland prepares to welcome the world for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, our global profile continues to rise. Far North Queensland will play a leading role in showcasing the natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality that define our state.
Congratulations to East Air, Cairns Airport, and everyone who helped make this service a reality.
This is a proud day for our region — and an important step toward a stronger, more connected Far North Queensland.
