Transport connectivity is the backbone of successful international and national conferences and events. At the Cairns Convention Centre, nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, the ease of access for delegates from around the world is pivotal. Enhanced transport options not only simplify logistics but also elevate the overall experience, ensuring that every event is as impactful as it is memorable.
A Game Changer: New Flights to Cairns
Cairns’ transport connectivity is set to soar in 2025 with the introduction of direct flights to Fiji. This development will create a seamless travel option for international delegates, particularly from North America. With connections to major hubs like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Dallas, travel times will be reduced by up to three hours. Delegates attending the Cairns Convention Centre will now have faster, more efficient journeys, reinforcing Cairns’ position as a premier destination for global events.
Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre, said, “We’re seeing increasing interest from international organisers. The new Fiji Airways route couldn’t have come at a better time for us and future visitors.” The service adds 53,000 annual seats to the Cairns market, offering unparalleled convenience for global travellers.
Connectivity: A Vital Element for Successful Events
Connectivity is not just about convenience; it is a crucial facilitator of global collaboration. Clients and delegates from Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region benefit from excellent connections via major Asian hubs like Singapore and Tokyo, along with seasonal services to Hong Kong and Auckland. Singapore Airlines provides First and Business Class options and four weekly departures via its Changi hub.
Jetstar offers Business Class flights from Osaka, Tokyo, and Bali, with seasonal flights through Hong Kong via Cathay Pacific. These connections make Cairns accessible from virtually anywhere in the world.
The Cairns Convention Centre complements these linkages with a sustainable and inclusive approach to event hosting. Eco-conscious venue designs, local culinary experiences, and inspiring environments with floor-to-ceiling windows and locally sourced materials create a sense of place and purpose for delegates.
Cairns as a Hub for Prestigious and Legacy Events
With recent advancements in aviation connectivity, Cairns is poised to host more high-profile events, such as the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Asia Pacific 2025. Scheduled for July 31 to August 1, this summit will bring together over 400 delegates from 20 countries in the aviation, tourism, and hospitality sectors to shape the future of air travel in the region. The new flight options are perfectly timed with the summit, highlighting how improved connectivity fosters international collaboration.
Richard Barker, CEO of Cairns Airport, highlights the significance of hosting this event in Cairns, emphasising the opportunity to bring global leaders to the region and the legacy it will create from the connections made. “At the CAPA event two years ago, I met with the network head for Fiji Airways, and we specifically discussed flights from Fiji to Cairns. Now, those flights are set to commence in April.”
A Boost to the Local Economy
Transport improvements do more than enhance delegate experiences; they drive economic growth. By attracting larger and more diverse international events, Cairns strengthens its reputation as a world-class destination, benefiting local businesses and tourism operators alike.
A Call to Action
As the event industry evolves, prioritising transport connectivity is vital. Cairns’ new flight routes, combined with its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, position it as a benchmark for future-focused event destinations. We invite global organisers to consider Cairns for their next event and experience a destination where seamless access meets world-class facilities.
