General News
27 July, 2026
50 cent airport bus service to start at year’s end
A LONG-advocated bus service connecting Cairns Airport to the heart of the city is expected to start at the end of the year.
The route will travel along Lake Street and serve key destinations, including Cairns Airport, Cairns Hospital, Cairns Private Hospital, Cairns City bus station and Cairns Lagoon, providing convenient connections to accommodation, attractions and the wider public transport network.
Route 100 will operate from 4am to 10.30pm, seven days a week (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day), with services every 30 minutes throughout the day. The first service will depart Cairns Lagoon at 4am, with the final service departing the airport at 10pm.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the introduction of this service responded to calls from the community and industry for public transport access to Cairns Airport.
“Cairns is one of Australia’s premier tourism destinations, welcoming millions of visitors every year, yet travellers and airport workers have been left without a direct, affordable public transport connection,” he said.
Member for Barron River Bree James said the new service was a major win for Cairns residents, local businesses and the tourism industry.
“Cairns Airport is the gateway to Tropical North Queensland and this new service will make it easier than ever for people to get where they need to go,” she said.
“Importantly, route 100 will connect key destinations including our hospitals, the city centre and Cairns Lagoon, making it a valuable service for residents as well as visitors.
“Whether you’re a visitor arriving in Cairns, a local resident heading to the airport or an airport worker travelling to and from work, this service will provide a simple and affordable transport option.
“The Crisafulli government is focused on delivering practical improvements that make life easier for Queenslanders, and this is another great outcome for our community.
“I’m proud to support this service and look forward to seeing locals and visitors benefiting from better connectivity across Cairns.”
