In a significant stride towards recovery, Cairns Airport is set to reopen today following the widespread havoc caused by Storm Jasper. The airport, a crucial gateway to the tropical paradise of North Queensland, faced unprecedented challenges as the storm unleashed heavy rainfall and severe flooding in the region.

The update on its Facebook page read.

“We are pleased this morning to further confirm that the 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 urged passengers with booked flights to contact airlines directly for information about specific flights and scheduling.

Storm Jasper, a powerful weather system that battered the region, left a trail of destruction in its wake. The relentless rainfall resulted in swollen rivers, flooded streets, and widespread damage to infrastructure. Cairns, a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, faced disruptions in transportation, with the airport being one of the hardest-hit areas.

The flooding is the worst on record. James Cook University’s Professor Jonathan Nott told ABC Far North that the flood is now up to 40 per cent higher than the 1977 flood, previously the biggest on record for the region.

#Queensland - Planes and vehicles become submerged at Cairns Airport with heavy floods impacting apron and runways as seen along Captain Cook Highway in #Aeroglen (?Lillian.macgregor) pic.twitter.com/Yymcqtx0zm

— CyclistAnons? (@CyclistAnons) December 17, 2023