Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Flight

Operated by: Zoom Helicopters

From $415.00 AUD

Aeroglen QLD 4870

All Ages (2+)

Book the Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Flight today!

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Tour Description

Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Helicopter Flight

Get ready for a fresh new view of Tropical North Queensland on the Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Flight! This 30-minute helicopter ride gives you an amazing look at Cairns, Trinity Inlet and the Inner Great Barrier Reef, all from a perspective you can only get from the air.

Your flight takes off from Cairns Airport in Aeroglen, where you’ll see the city and inlet stretch out below you. The route heads toward False Cape, passing old WWII gun sites that are still visible today. As you fly over Mission Bay, Mt Yarrabah and Cape Grafton, the coastline opens up and the reef comes into sight.

You will then pass over Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay surrounded by rainforest. From there, your pilot continues over Arlington Reef, known for its colourful coral and marine life. Keep an eye out for turtles, rays or even reef sharks swimming in the clear water.

One of the highlights is Vlasoff Cay, a small sandy cay surrounded by bright blue water. At high tide, it almost disappears, but from above, it looks picture perfect. Your pilot will circle the cay for photos, and you can even upgrade to land on the sand for an unforgettable holiday moment.

The flight heads back over Upolu Cay before returning to Cairns with the Great Dividing Range in the background.

It is a quick, fun and memorable way to see the reef and a great choice for anyone wanting a unique look at this part of Queensland.

Why book this tour?

  • Fly the most iconic reef route in just 30 minutes
  • Guaranteed window seat for all passengers
  • Perfect for families, couples & first-time reef visitors
  • High-impact adventure without strenuous activity
  • One of Cairns’ top-rated scenic flights

Highlights

  • Scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef inner reef system
  • Aerial views of Cairns, Trinity Inlet and Cape Grafton
  • Fly over Green Island’s rainforest coral cay
  • Explore Arlington Reef’s vibrant coral gardens
  • Circle the stunning Vlasoff Cay sand island
  • Optional sand cay landing upgrade
  • Panoramic views of the rainforest-covered Great Dividing Range

Tour Overview

Take to the skies on the Inner Reef Explorer scenic flight with Zoom Helicopters for an unforgettable 30-minute helicopter adventure from Cairns. Soar above the coastline, Trinity Inlet and the lush rainforest mountains before reaching the vibrant waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Fly over the reef highlights, including Green Island, Arlington Reef and the tiny sand cay of Vlasoff Cay, where you may spot turtles, rays and reef sharks from above. This relaxed scenic flight offers incredible aerial views of the reef and tropical coastline in just half an hour.

Included

  • 30-minute Inner Reef Explorer scenic flight
  • Experienced professional helicopter pilot
  • In-flight commentary
  • Views of major reef landmarks including Green Island and Arlington Reef
  • Safety briefing before departure
  • Window views for all passengers
  • Check in at Zoom Helicopters at Aeroglen Heliport, located at Cairns Airport, and receive a short safety briefing before boarding your helicopter.
  • Take off and enjoy aerial views over Cairns city, Trinity Inlet and False Cape, with glimpses of WWII defence sites and rainforest-covered mountain ranges.
  • Fly east to the inner edge of the Great Barrier Reef and pass over the famous Green Island coral cay surrounded by vibrant turquoise waters.
  • Continue north along Arlington Reef, where coral formations, lagoons and marine life can often be spotted from above.
  • Circle the stunning Vlasoff Cay, a small sand cay in the middle of the reef, with optional landing upgrades available for photos and exploration.
  • Fly back across Upolu Cay and along the beautiful Queensland coastline before landing back at Cairns Airport.

*Please note: The above tour itineraries are a guideline only and are subject to change depending on tide, wind and other weather conditions.

  • Private helicopter charter
  • Extended reef scenic flights
  • Photography charter flights
  • Proposal or special occasion flights

Q: How long is the Inner Reef Explorer Scenic Flight?

A: The experience lasts approximately 30 minutes in the air, plus check-in and safety briefing time before departure.

Q: Is the Inner Reef Explorer scenic flight suitable for children?

A: Yes. The flight is suitable for ages 2 and above, making it a great family-friendly Great Barrier Reef experience.

Q: What will I see on the Inner Reef Explorer scenic flight?

A: This scenic helicopter flight showcases Cairns, Trinity Inlet, Green Island, Arlington Reef, Vlasoff Cay and sections of the Great Barrier Reef’s inner reef system.

Q: Where does the scenic flight depart from?

A: All flights depart from Zoom Helicopters, Building 21, Bush Pilots Avenue, Aeroglen, QLD 4870.

Q: What should I bring on the scenic helicopter flight?

A: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera. Personal items must be in small soft bags and generally limited to 10 kg per passenger.

Booking Requirements

  • Minimum 2 passengers per booking
  • Flights depart from Zoom Helicopters, Aeroglen, Cairns

Booking Confirmation

  • Bookings must be reconfirmed 24 hours before departure
  • Open-Dated Bookings require at least 3 days notice before travel

Cancellations & Refunds

  • Cancellation within 24 hours: 100% cancellation fee
  • Cancellation 24–48 hours before departure: 50% fee

Weight & Safety

  • Weight restrictions apply for helicopter balance and safety
  • Personal items must not exceed 10 kg

By booking through Dundee Adventure Travel, you agree to both Dundee Adventure Travel’s General Terms & Conditions and the Supplier Terms & Conditions.

Instant Confirmation - Get immediate confirmation as soon as your booking is complete.

Prices in AUD – All bookings are charged in Australian Dollars

Secure Payment – All payments are processed securely for your peace of mind.

E-Ticket Delivered – Receive your booking details straight to your inbox.

24/7 Support – Need help? Our friendly team is always here for you.

Free Cancellations – Many of our tours offer free cancellation options (check T&Cs).

Best Price Guarantee – We offer unbeatable value with no hidden fees.

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