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Queensland is a much-loved holiday destination for Australians thanks to the extensive variety of entertainment and activities in close proximity, including theme parks, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches and day-trip spots.
Brisbane Airport (BNE) is one of Australia's busiest international and domestic airports, with direct flights from dozens of destinations around the country. It's your gateway to adventure in the Sunshine State.
Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia
Domestic flights from $69 each way
Ends
Available for travel from July 2022 – May 2023 to Gold Coast, Adelaide, Coffs Harbour, Alice Springs, Townsville and more. Sample fare is Ballina-Sydney. T&Cs apply.
Brisbane's airport:
Brisbane Airport (BNE)
Get the best price:
February and May
Book in advance by:
28 days
Best airline (price):
Jetstar
As the state capital and largest city of Queensland, there's a lot of competition on routes to Brisbane. The average cost of flights to Brisbane doesn't vary too much across the year.
You can find cheap flights to Brisbane from Sydney and Melbourne for less than $200 direct return with Jetstar. With the Sunshine State, you can find flights from Cairns or Townsville for around $150 direct return.
Flights from Adelaide and Hobart range from $150-$200 direct return. From further across the country, you can find flights from Perth or Darwin from $300-$400 direct return. Jetstar has the cheapest flights but you can find a competitive deal with other airlines during flight sales.
Flights to Brisbane are typically cheapest between February and May after the busy summer period but before the popular winter period. We think April to May is the best time to visit Brisbane for comfy weather.
As mentioned, Brisbane and Queensland are a popular escape during the winter months from colder parts of the country. This demand drives the prices up making June to August the most expensive time to fly.
Cheapest months to fly:
February and May
Priciest months to fly:
June to August
Here's approximately how long it takes to fly to Brisbane via these cities.
You can fly directly to Brisbane with the following airlines from the listed locations.
| Departure city | Points required for a return Qantas flight | Points required for a return Virgin flight |
|---|---|---|
| Alice Springs | 36,000 | 35,600 |
| Adelaide | 24,000 | 23,600 |
| Cairns | 24,000 | 23,600 |
| Darwin | 36,000 | 35,600 |
| Gold Coast | 24,000 | Not available |
| Melbourne | 24,000 | 23,600 |
| Perth | 36,000 | 35,600 |
| Sydney | 16,000 | 15,600 |
Offer may be withdrawn at any time
Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply
Offer may be withdrawn at any time
Eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply
Brisbane Airport (BNE) is Brisbane's main airport but you can also fly to Coolangatta Airport (OOL) on the Gold Coast, which is about 90 minutes from the city. The airport can get quite busy, especially during the Queensland school holiday periods. Compared to Coolangatta, you may find flying into Brisbane Airport less hectic during peak periods. If you plan to spend your time on the Gold Coast, you can rent a car and drive down, returning the car back to the airport before your departure.
Brisbane's Airtrain offers convenient services between the airport, Brisbane city and the Gold Coast as well as transfers between the domestic and international terminals. Airtrain operates every day between 5:45am and 10pm, and departs every 15 minutes during peak hour.
If you're travelling outside of those hours or want full door-to-door service, you can book a private or shared airport transfer in advance with Viator or Jayride. Car rental desks are available at all terminals. Alternatively, an Uber driver can pick you up from the passenger pick-up areas, but they can't park at regular taxi ranks. A taxi into the city centre costs $25-$30, and you can find one at designated taxi ranks outside the terminals.
See all of the best sites in Brisbane, find the best activities to do and discover why Brisbane is one of Australia’s top cities by following our guide on where to go in Brisbane.
Where to go for high tea in Brisbane, from a Queensland feast by the river to a quirky chocolate fondue tea in the city.
