Christmas Island Airport is the only gateway on this small Australian external territory in the Indian Ocean, approximately 6 km from the main settlement on the island, Flying Fish Cove.
Connections are operated exclusively by Qantas (recently selected as the long-term partner for the Indian Ocean Territories), with a limited number of weekly flights from Perth.
How to get to Christmas Island Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to XCH
Parking near Christmas Island Airport
Not far from the terminal is a parking area of modest size.
It is not staffed; rates are generally symbolic or free, consistent with the airport's small size.
How to get to Christmas Island from XCH
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Christmas Island Airport
Car rental, available at airport desks, is practically essential for exploring the island, given the lack of structured public transportation.
Bring a driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit; a national license is generally accepted for visitors. Traffic is on the left.
Hotels near Christmas Island Airport
Some accommodation options are found near Flying Fish Cove and in other areas of the island, all within a few minutes of the airport given the island's small size.
Island accommodations (roughly 90-200 USD/night, limited supply due to the small tourism size) are generally 10-20 minutes from the airport; the island is considered very safe in all areas. The red crab migration season (October-December) is the most sought-after and should be booked well in advance.
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is very small, consistent with the airport's limited traffic. From check-in to gate you typically walk just a few minutes.
Given the limited number of weekly flights, security checks are generally quick; however, it's still advisable to arrive at least 2 hours early.
Map of Christmas Island Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Do you need a visa for Christmas Island?
As an Australian external territory, the same entry rules apply as for Australia when arriving from abroad; those arriving from mainland Australia need no further formalities.
Q. When can you see the red crab migration?
Generally between October and December, depending on the rains: millions of red crabs migrate from the forest to the sea, with some roads temporarily closed to protect them.
Q. Do you need a rental car on Christmas Island?
Yes, it's practically essential: there's no structured public transport service on the island, and car-hire desks are right at the airport.
Q. How many flights connect Christmas Island to the rest of the world?
A limited number of weekly flights operated by Qantas from Perth, on the Australian mainland: always check the current schedules well in advance.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
