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Cairns Airport reopens, but long recovery ahead for region

Cairns Airport has reopened this morning, but flood warnings remain active for some regions in Far North Queensland.

Cairns Airport has reopened this morning, but flood warnings remain active for some regions in Far North Queensland.

In its final scheduled update this morning, the FNQ hub said “Cairns Airport runway is clear and serviceable, and we are operational today”.

“We met with our airline partners and other key stakeholders a short time ago. Passenger flights will recommence at Cairns Airport this morning,” it stated.

The airport added that “airlines are determining their own flight operations and schedules” and that travellers should contact their carriers directly for information about specific flights.

According to the hub’s website, the first incoming flight, QF702 from Melbourne, touched down at 12.25pm this afternoon.

Cairns_airport
Departures entry

“We thank you for your patience and wish to commend our airline partners for their commitment to restoring services to our region as soon as possible,” it said.

CNS also confirmed that “car parks at our domestic and international terminals were not adversely impacted during the flooding event” after it received a lot of enquiries from customers who have vehicles parked at the airport.

“If your vehicle was left at Cairns Airport longer than you planned, please direct all queries to park@cairnsairport.com.au and our friendly team will get back to you,” it stated.

“Further, we wish to confirm that Airport Avenue, the main access road into Cairns Airport, is open and clear to traffic.

“Please remain vigilant and stay safe on our roads if you are travelling to the airport.

“Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support throughout this challenging event.”

What’s ahead?

According to the ABC, the Bureau of Meteorology’s Laura Boekel said that although flooding is easing, storms are still on the radar, particularly around the Cape.

“We have one major flood warning current, and that’s for the Murray River,” she said.

“The Daintree River has now been downgraded to a moderate flood warning.”