Business
9 November, 2025
Popular route revived
THE first flight was nearly full and forward bookings are exceeding expectations as the inaugural East Air service departed Cairns Airport for Hamilton Island last Monday morning.
Industry leaders expect the new service will bring significant opportunities to both regions, restoring an in-demand connection between two of Queensland’s most iconic destinations.
East Air managing director Alan Milne said additional Sunday flights were set to start in February.
“The service is designed to better serve travellers, both domestic and international. We have created a seamless corridor between two Great Barrier Reef gateways, which means visitors don’t have to choose between one or the other,” he said.
“It is particularly attractive for international tourists who may not often visit regional Queensland. Our connection can be integrated into a customer’s door-to-door itinerary, so it’s really taking the guess work out of holiday planning by removing lengthy airport transfer periods and additional travel costs.”
Flights have not operated between Cairns and Hamilton Island since the start of the COVID pandemic. At that time, almost 37,000 seats per year were carried between the two popular destinations.
Mr Milne said the new, year-round service had been keenly welcomed by locals.
“We are thrilled to announce Sunday flights are now on sale, in addition to our Monday and Friday services. This will be an ideal schedule for a two-night, weekend getaway – down on Friday morning and back on Sunday afternoon,” he said.
“Sales are strong and building and we’re thrilled with how quickly the flights are returning to their previous passenger loads, when Qantas flew this route pre-COVID.”
Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said the addition of East Air would encourage more travellers to fly directly into Cairns to start their holiday.
“Our international passenger numbers reached a 20-year high in 2024 and we are pleased to see that positive growth continue,” he said.
“East Air’s direct link to Hamilton Island will enable visitors to plan their perfect tropical getaway without needing to stop in Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne. It will encourage longer stays and increased regional spending, which offers a range of community-wide benefits.”
