Every minute in the air above the Great Barrier Reef feels like a movie scene — but what kind of scene you get depends on how long you’re up there.
Some people love the quick thrill of a 40-minute scenic flight, packed with all the highlights. Others want to stretch it out — gliding further along the reef, the islands, and the rainforest coast.
That’s why we offer different flight durations, so you can tailor your sky adventure to your time, budget, and wanderlust level.
Short, smooth, and spectacular — our 40-minute flight is the perfect introduction to the Great Barrier Reef from the air. Perfect for: travellers on a schedule, first-time flyers, and photography lovers.
You’ll soar over:
The outer reef systems and coral cays
The turquoise lagoons that make this world-famous view unforgettable
It’s our most popular duration for first-timers, families, and anyone who wants the full wow-factor without spending a full day in the sky.
Includes:
Want to propose mid-air?
Need more time to photograph the reef edge?
Or planning a luxury Vlasoff Cay landing?
Because the longer you fly, the more you feel.
A 40-minute flight shows you the reef’s sparkle. A 90-minute flight lets you feel the vastness of it — how it stretches endlessly into the Coral Sea.
And if you choose a private or extended flight, you’re not just watching nature… you’re part of it.
We can adjust flight duration, route, and inclusions to match your exact vision.
Just tell us what kind of experience you’re chasing — and we’ll make it happen.
Want to go further or linger longer?
We also offer extended durations that cover even more of the reef, coastline, and rainforest — with the option to include private charters, Vlasoff Cay landings, or custom routes.
Available Durations:
60-Minute Reef + Rainforest Combination
90-Minute Outer Reef & Daintree Adventure
Custom Duration Flights (Private Charters)
Every extra minute in the air adds another layer of beauty — deeper blues, wider coral patterns, and the kind of serenity that stays with you long after landing.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Duration | Best For | What You’ll See |
|---|---|---|
| 40 Minutes | First-timers, families, quick trips | Inner & Outer Reef Highlights |
| 60 Minutes | Reef + Rainforest explorers | Great Barrier Reef, Green Island, Barron Gorge |
| 90 Minutes | Adventure seekers, photographers | Full Reef Circuit + Daintree Coast |
| Custom/Private | Special occasions | Tailored route — your way, your pace |
It’s your time in the sky — make it count.
No matter the duration, every flight includes:
Guaranteed window seats
Professional pilot commentary
Air-conditioned comfort
Complimentary transfers from Cairns hotels
Safety briefing and route overview
Because even a 40-minute flight deserves five-star attention.
Whether you want a quick 40-minute highlight reel or an extended journey across the reef and rainforest, we’ve got a flight that fits your pace perfectly.
Every minute tells a story — yours starts when the propellers spin.
Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flights provides safe and efficient Air Charter, Air Tours and Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flights departing throughout Cairns Australia.