Cheap flights from Mackay

Set on Queensland’s central coast, Mackay Airport is a perfect departure point for those looking to explore other parts of Australia without the crowds (that you’ll often see at a major city airport). Located just 10 minutes away from the city centre, getting to and from the Airport is a breeze. Whether you’re off to a city escape in Sydney or a tropical getaway in Darwin, Mackay is your perfect no-fuss starting point. 

Destinations you can fly to direct from Mackay 

Currently, you can only fly to domestic destinations from Mackay, all in Queensland:

• Brisbane
• Rockhamptom
• Townsville

Flying to a destination outside of Queensland? You’ll need to connect in one of the cities above.

Cheap destinations you can fly to from Mackay 

Flights to Brisbane are relatively affordable, with one-way flights typically sitting around AU$158. Unfortunately, flights to Townsville and Rockhampton can get pretty expensive as there are fewer flights to choose from throughout the week.

Airlines flying from Mackay

• Jetstar: Brisbane
• Qantas: Rockhampton, Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns
• Virgin Australia: Brisbane

Terminals at Mackay

Expect a single, modern terminal when arriving at Mackay Airport. It’s super compact and easy to get around, with security, check-in, and departure gates all within close proximity. There are also cafes and snack bars, car hire desks, and free wifi throughout the airport. 

Getting to the airport

There are a few ways you can get to Mackay Airport. Many opt for a taxi or a rideshare for a convenient door-to-door service. The journey takes just 10-15 minutes and costs around AU$20-30 to get to the city centre. Many hotels in Mackay also offer private transfers for added convenience. 

Nearby airports to consider flying from

It’s good to know your options when flying. Here are a few nearby airports that you could consider for cheaper fares. 

Whitsunday Coast Airport 

Roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Mackay, Whitsunday Coast Airport sometimes offer cheaper flights to Brisbane, particularly with low-cost carriers.

Rockhampton Airport 

While Rockhampton Airport is about 3 hours south of Mackay by car, it offers additional flights to Brisbane, which can be useful if flights from Mackay are fully booked or pricey.

When is the cheapest time to fly from Mackay

The cheapest time to fly to Mackay is during the shoulder seasons, when there are fewer tourists. Generally, travelling to Mackay between late February and early April, or between mid-August and September, will see pretty competitive fares. Plus, Mackay’s year-round warm weather means off-peak travel is still pleasant. 

Avoid December holidays and the July school break, as prices are likely to spike during these periods.