• 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. 

One of the most popular helicopter rides in Cairns. Join our local pilots on a stunning 30 minute scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef in Far North Queensland.

What to Expect

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef from above on a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight departing from Cairns. This unforgettable journey offers panoramic views of tropical rainforests, sparkling sand cays, and stunning coral formations, allowing you to fully appreciate the reef’s expansive ecosystem from the air. Soar over iconic locations such as Green Island, Arlington Reef, and the picturesque Vlasoff and Upolu Cays, with commentary from experienced local pilots who know every detail of this remarkable landscape that surround Cairns city.

This popular helicopter scenic flight tour provides a unique perspective on the vibrant colours and diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, including turtles, rays, and possibly even reef sharks. Perfect for visitors wanting to capture the full scale and beauty of Cairns and Tropical Far North Queensland’s coast and reef.

Features and Highlights

Spectacular Views From Helicopter Seat

• The Great Barrier Reef from Above: On this scenic helicopter flight soar over Vlasoff Cay, Arlington Reef, and Upolu Cay, with unparalleled views of the coral reefs, islands, and turquoise waters.
• Iconic Green Island: See the highly popular 6,000-year-old coral sand island, Green Island complete with its own rainforest ecosystem, surrounded by clear, inviting waters.
• Coastal Rainforest and Mountain Views: Marvel at the coastal Daintree Rainforests and Atherton Tablelands mountain ranges framing the Queensland coastline, including the lush slopes of the Great Dividing Range.

Unique Sights Along the Route

• Historical Sites: Pass over False Cape to view remnants of WWII defences and take in the scenic beauty of Trinity Inlet and Mission Bay.
• Marine Life Sightings: As you fly over Arlington Reef and other cays, you might spot marine life such as turtles, rays, and even reef sharks in their natural habitat.

Comfort and Convenience

• Professional Local Pilots: Our skilled, knowledgeable helicopter pilots provide informative commentary and insights, ensuring a safe and smooth scenic flight while highlighting the significance of each landmark.
• Modern Helicopters: Enjoy the comfort and safety of our well-maintained fleet of helicopters, designed to offer maximum viewing for all guests.

Sample Helicopter Flight Path Itinerary

1. Departure from Cairns Airport: Your journey begins with a scenic take off from Cairns, immediately offering aerial views of Cairns city and Trinity Inlet.
2. False Cape and WWII Sites: Pass over False Cape and spot remnants of WWII defences before heading toward the Great Barrier Reef.
3. Green Island and Arlington Reef: Enjoy bird’s-eye views of Green Island and Arlington Reef, observing their vibrant coral formations and bustling marine life.
4. Vlasoff Cay and Upolu Cay: Circle over Vlasoff Cay’s shimmering sand banks and the clear waters around Upolu Cay, set like jewels in the reef.
5. Return to Cairns: Head back with panoramic views of the Queensland coast, rainforest, and mountains.

Why Choose Our 30-Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight?

• Iconic Landscapes in Minutes: Capture the diversity of the Great Barrier Reef, tropical islands, and the rainforest-clad coast in just 30 minutes.
• Exclusive Access to Reef Hotspots: See secluded locations such as Vlasoff Cay and Arlington Reef, which are otherwise hard to reach.
• Perfect for Photographers: Unobstructed views of the reef and coastline are ideal for capturing incredible aerial photos.

Experience the Great Barrier Reef from above with this immersive Cairns helicopter tour, offering a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty in one unforgettable flight.

See all Cairns and Port Douglas helicopter rides.

See all helicopter and reef combo package tours.

Read The Tour Specialists Blog for all the things you need to know before you go.

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