Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Flight
About This Activity
The Inner Reef Explorer is a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight operated by Zoom Helicopters, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Inner Great Barrier Reef and surrounding coastline. This relaxed experience is suitable for all ages and is an ideal introduction to the scale and beauty of the reef.
Highlights
- Enjoy a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Inner Great Barrier Reef.
- Take in aerial views of Cairns city, Trinity Inlet, and the coastline.
- Fly over Green Island and the western edge of Arlington Reef.
- Spot marine life such as turtles, sharks, and manta rays from above.
- Circle Vlasoff Cay, a tiny coral sand cay in the middle of the reef.
- Return via Upolu Cay and the rainforest-covered Great Dividing Range.
Full Description
Departing from Cairns Airport, this scenic helicopter flight offers an unforgettable overview of Tropical North Queensland from the air. After lifting off, the flight tracks out over the city of Cairns and Trinity Inlet before passing False Cape, where remnants of World War II coastal defences can still be seen.
The journey continues past Mission Bay, Cape Grafton, and Mount Yarrabah before reaching the inner edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Fly over Green Island, a coral sand island with its own rainforest ecosystem, before heading north along the western side of Arlington Reef, home to a diverse range of marine life.
The flight circles Vlasoff Cay, a striking sand cay that changes dramatically in size at high tide, before heading west over Upolu Cay and back to Cairns. Throughout the flight, enjoy sweeping views of the Coral Sea framed by rainforest-covered mountain ranges.
Itinerary
| Starting location options: | Zoom Helicopters, Building 21, Bush Pilots Avenue, Aeroglen, QLD 4870 |
| Helicopter Scenic Flight: | 30-minute scenic flight over the Inner Great Barrier Reef and coastline |
| Inner Reef & Cay Flyover: | Aerial views of Green Island, Arlington Reef, Vlasoff Cay, and Upolu Cay |
| Return Flight: | Scenic return to Cairns with coastal and rainforest views |
| Drop-off locations: | Zoom Helicopters, Building 21, Bush Pilots Avenue, Aeroglen, QLD 4870 |
**For reference only. Flight paths are subject to weather and air traffic conditions.
Includes
- 30-minute scenic helicopter flight.
- Live pilot commentary.
- Window seat for all passengers.
Not Included
- Cay landing (available on request and subject to conditions).
- Hotel transfers.
- Food and beverages.
Not Suitable For
This experience is suitable for guests aged 2 years and over. Weight restrictions apply.
Meeting Point
Meet at Zoom Helicopters, Building 21, Bush Pilots Avenue, Aeroglen, QLD 4870. Exact check-in instructions are provided after booking.
Important Information
What to Bring
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Camera.
- Small soft bags only.
Restrictions
- Personal items must not exceed 10 kg.
- Weight restrictions apply and must be declared at booking.
Know Before You Go
Flight routes may vary due to weather, visibility, or air traffic requirements. Guests wishing to request a cay landing should advise at the time of booking or speak with the pilot on the day. All flights are subject to operational and safety conditions.