The Cairns: Reef & Port Douglas Scenic Flight offers a captivating aerial tour that showcases the natural wonders of the region. With guaranteed window seats and in-flight pilot commentary, passengers can enjoy the vibrant colors, serene islands, and lush coastal landscapes of Green Island, the Great Barrier Reef, and Port Douglas. While a strict cancellation policy applies, the flight is subject to weather, aircraft availability, and air traffic control considerations, with the pilot maintaining final discretion for safe navigation. But for those seeking a comprehensive perspective of this stunning part of the world, this one-hour aerial adventure could be the perfect way to…
Key Points
- The 1-hour aerial tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the Great Barrier Reef, Green Island, and Port Douglas in North Queensland.
- Passengers are guaranteed window seats for optimal viewing of the region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
- The tour includes in-flight pilot commentary and courtesy bus transfers to and from Cairns city for convenience.
- Cancellations or no-shows within 24 hours incur a 100% fee, as the policy aims to ensure seats are filled.
- Flight operations are subject to weather conditions, aircraft availability, and air traffic control, with pilots maintaining final discretion for safety.
Tour Details
The scenic flight offers a 1-hour aerial tour that provides a bird’s-eye view of Green Island, the Great Barrier Reef, and Port Douglas.
This tour covers offshore sights before returning along the North Queensland coastline.
Passengers will enjoy guaranteed window seats and in-flight pilot commentary throughout the journey.
Courtesy bus transfers to and from Cairns city are also included as part of the tour package.
This scenic flight is an excellent opportunity for visitors to see the stunning natural beauty of this region from a unique aerial perspective.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cairns.
Inclusions
Included in the scenic flight are guaranteed window seats, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the breathtaking aerial views.
Courtesy bus transfers to and from Cairns city are provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to the tour.
The in-flight pilot commentary further enhances the experience by offering insights and information about the sights below.
Passengers can look forward to a comprehensive experience, with the pilot’s expert guidance complementing the stunning vistas of Green Island, the Great Barrier Reef, and Port Douglas.
The inclusions cater to the comfort and convenience of guests, making the scenic flight an efficient and enjoyable way to explore the region’s natural wonders from above.
Sights Covered
The scenic flight’s itinerary covers a diverse array of natural wonders, including the iconic Green Island, the vast expanse of the Great Barrier Reef, and the picturesque town of Port Douglas.
Passengers will soar over offshore sights such as Arlington Reef, Middle Cay, Michaelmas Cay, Upolu Reef, Batt Reef, and Tongue Reef, before returning along the stunning North Queensland coastline.
The highlights of this journey include:
- Witnessing the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the Great Barrier Reef from a bird’s-eye view
- Marveling at the serene beauty of the offshore islands and cays
- Gaining a unique perspective of the lush coastal landscapes surrounding Cairns and Port Douglas
- Experiencing the sheer scale and grandeur of this natural wonder.
Cancellation Policy
Cairns scenic flight bookings come with a strict cancellation policy, imposing a 100% fee for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours. This policy is in place to ensure operators can recoup costs and fill available seats.
Customers must be aware of this policy when booking their scenic flight. Last-minute changes or no-shows prevent others from enjoying the tour and can negatively impact the operator’s business.
While weather, air traffic, and aircraft availability may cause flights to be rescheduled, the cancellation fees apply to changes made by the customer. Travelers should plan accordingly and only book if they’re certain they can attend, to avoid unnecessary charges.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFlight Considerations
Weather, aircraft availability, and air traffic control dictate the operation of Cairns scenic flights, with pilots maintaining final discretion over each trip.
Factors such as wind, visibility, and cloud cover can prompt flight cancellations or route changes to ensure passenger safety.
Plus, the availability of aircraft can impact scheduled departures, while coordination with air traffic control is essential for navigating the airspace.
Flights may be canceled or rerouted due to adverse weather conditions.
Aircraft availability can affect scheduled departure times.
Coordination with air traffic control is crucial for safe navigation.
Pilots have the final say in determining if a flight can proceed as planned.
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Infant Travel
Infants under 3 can travel for free when accompanying a paying adult, though they must be held on the adult’s lap during the flight. This policy allows families with young children to enjoy the scenic flight without incurring extra costs.
It’s important to note that while infants can travel for free, the tour may not be suitable for them due to the potential for turbulence and noise. Parents should consider their child’s comfort and ability to remain calm during the 1-hour flight.
The tour operator’s priority is to ensure all passengers, including infants, have a safe and enjoyable experience. Families traveling with young children should plan accordingly and discuss any concerns with the tour staff prior to booking.
Weight Restrictions
Typically, the tour has a weight restriction of 264 lbs (120 kg) or less for all passengers to ensure the aircraft operates safely and comfortably. This policy is in place to maintain the aircraft’s balance and weight distribution, as well as provide a comfortable experience for all passengers.
The weight limit applies to both adults and children over the age of 3. Passengers who exceed the weight limit may be unable to join the tour or may need to make alternative arrangements.
It’s essential to provide accurate weight information when booking to avoid any issues on the day of the tour. The airline reserves the right to refuse boarding if a passenger’s weight exceeds the limit.
Getting There
To reach the scenic flight’s departure point, passengers can utilize the complimentary courtesy bus transfers provided by the tour operator. These transfers depart from various locations in Cairns city, ensuring a hassle-free journey to the airfield.
The transfer schedule is as follows:
Departure Location | Departure Time |
---|---|
Cairns City Center | 8:00 AM |
Cairns Esplanade | 8:15 AM |
Palm Cove | 8:30 AM |
Port Douglas | 8:45 AM |
Kuranda | 9:00 AM |
Passengers should be ready at their respective pickup locations to ensure a smooth and timely departure for the scenic flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Passengers Required for the Flight?
There is no minimum number of passengers required for the scenic flight. The tour operates with a flexible group size, allowing individuals or small groups to book and enjoy the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Flight?
Passengers are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the flight. The tour operator typically provides all necessary snacks and beverages during the scenic aerial journey. Bringing outside items is usually not allowed for safety and logistical reasons.
Are Any Additional Photography/Video Permits Required During the Flight?
No additional photography or video permits are required during the scenic flight. Passengers can freely take photos and videos throughout the flight as part of their ticket purchase, as long as they do not interfere with the pilot’s duties.
Can I Request a Specific Seat Location Within the Plane?
Yes, passengers can request specific seat locations on the plane, subject to availability. The tour operator give you all passengers with a guaranteed window seat, though their ability to accommodate requests may depend on factors like flight occupancy.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Flight as Part of a Package Deal?
This scenic flight does not offer discounts for booking as part of a package deal. The price is fixed and there are no additional savings available for bundling the flight with other activities or accommodations.
Recap
The Cairns: Reef & Port Douglas Scenic Flight offers a captivating aerial tour that showcases the natural wonders of the region.
Passengers are guaranteed window seats for an optimal viewing experience, with in-flight pilot commentary enhancing the journey.
While the tour is subject to various considerations, it provides a comprehensive perspective of the vibrant colors, serene islands, and lush coastal landscapes that define this remarkable destination.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Cairns
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