• View the Great Barrier Reef with a birds eye view, on our most popular Cairns helicopter flights!
• This is a 30 minute Great Barrier Reef helicopter ride to blow your mind. The visual beauty of the reef and her islands can only be taken in fully from the seat of a helicopter from Cairns on a low level scenic flight. 
• Cairns helicopter flights allow you to see the expansive size of the Great Barrier Reef, her islands and coral cays. Such a beautiful way to see the reef before snorkelling and diving the reef. 
• Whilst on your helicopter ride we pass over Upolu Cay, Vlasoff Cay, Green Island, False Cape, Arlington Reef. You even get to see the magnificent rainforest covered mountains surrounding the reef. 

Our most popular Cairns helicopter scenic flight. This 30 minute Great Barrier Reef scenic flight takes in the highlights of the inner reef from Cairns city.

What to Expect

Popular Cairns Helicopter Scenic Flight: 30-Minute Great Barrier Reef Tour

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Barrier Reef on our most popular 30-minute helicopter scenic flight from Cairns. This unforgettable experience offers breathtaking aerial views of the world’s largest coral reef system, providing a unique perspective that simply can’t be matched from the ground or sea.

As you relax in the seat of the helicopter gliding above the turquoise waters, you’ll have the chance to spot marine life such as turtles, sharks, and even humpback whales during the season (July - November). This Cairns helicopter ride is ideal for visitors wanting to fully appreciate the sheer scale and vibrant colours of the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding landscapes.

Features and Highlights

• Incredible Reef Views: Take in stunning views of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef as your helicopter soars over the intricate coral formations and crystal-clear waters. Your flight offers an up-close look at the marine life and vibrant hues of the Great Barrier Reef from a bird’s-eye perspective.
• Cairns and Coastal Highlights: Departing from Cairns General Aviation Airport, your helicopter scenic flight adventure begins with views of the city, Trinity Inlet, and the surrounding coastal landscapes. You’ll pass False Cape, a historical site with remnants of World War II defences, as well as Mt Yarrabah, Mission Bay, and Cape Grafton on the southern side of Cairns.
• Explore Iconic Reef Sites: Your helicopter ride takes you over iconic reef sites including Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay with its own native rainforest ecosystem. Continue north to the western side of Arlington Reef, where you may spot turtles, stingrays, and reef sharks swimming below.
• Vlasoff Cay and Upolu Cay: Marvel at the beauty of Vlasoff Cay, a tiny sand island that almost disappears at high tide, before flying over the stunning Upolu Cay. Capture postcard-perfect pictures of these secluded cays from your helicopter seat.
• Coastal and Rainforest Views: As your helicopter ride heads back to Cairns, enjoy panoramic views of the Far North Queensland coastline, framed by the lush rainforest-covered slopes of the Great Dividing Range. The contrast between the reef, rainforest, and cityscape creates a truly spectacular sight.

Perfect for Cruise Ship Passengers

• If you’re visiting Cairns on cruise ship, this helicopter scenic flight tour is an excellent option for a shore excursion. With a short duration and easy access from the port, it’s a great way to maximise your time in this beautiful region.

Additional Scenic Flights

• Explore more Cairns helicopter scenic flights and check out additional options for Port Douglas helicopter flights. Whether you’re looking for a quick overview of the reef or a more immersive experience, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.
• Please note you must book your helicopter flights far in advance due to limited seat capacity and number of daiy flights.

For cruise ship passengers, read more about our tailored shore tours in Cairns for the best ways to explore this stunning area.

Read more about scenic flights on the Great Barrier Reef on our Blog.

Tour Languages Offered

• English

Departs From

Cairns

Departure Time

Departure time confirmed at time of booking

Destinations

• Great Barrier Reef
• Great Barrier Reef
• Arlington Reef
• Vlasoff Cay

Months of Operation

January - December

Days of Operation

Daily

Duration

30 Minutes

Available for Purchase / Hire

In flight video

Fitness Level Required

Low

Restrictions

Weight variances greater than 10% of that advised at the time of booking may incur additional charges and/or luggage allowances being reduced. Operator reserves the right to refuse travel and charge a 100% cancellation fee.

Weight: Up to 130 Kg / 287 Lb

Camera (charged)

• Children 2 years and above are legally required to be seated in their own seat and are therefore required to pay the full ticket price.
• Children aged 2 years to 13 years must be accompanied by an adult on all flights.
• Children who have not yet reached their 2nd birthday are classified as infants and may travel free of charge (seated on a parent/guardian’s lap utilising a company provided infant seat belt restraint).
• Only one (1) infant is permitted to travel in an aircraft.
• Please notify us at the time if booking advise if passengers are travelling with infants