Birdsville Scenic Flights and Air Tours
(In-conjunction with Wrights Air)
2025 Scenic Flights: Diamantina River, Eyre Creek and Cooper Creek Channel Country in Flood!
The entire Western Queensland area experienced unprecedented rains in late March 2025 and the resulting floods have completely rejuvenated the rivers and creeks that make up the spectacular Channel Country. These include the mighty Diamantina River, Eyre Creek and Cooper Creek all of which are making their way towards Lake Eyre. This will be the first time that the Cooper Creek will reach Lake Eyre since 2011 and is the biggest recorded flood in the Cooper Creek basin in over 50 years. Not since the early 50's has this region seen floodwaters of this magnitude. The Diamantina River that runs close to Birdsville is also experiencing extraordinary water flow. As you can see from photos taken on the 8th April – Birdsville is surrounded on 3 sides by the swollen river in what may also be the largest flood event the river has seen for over half a century. Even though it looks like our small town might be in danger of getting "wet feet", when the town was surveyed in 1885 one thing the authorities did get correct was the height of the town above the Diamantina River.
Many would know the Diamantina River feeds the vast Goyder Lagoon floodplain area after Birdsville, creating an unbelievable contrast against the backdrop of the surrounding Desert. The Eyre Creek, fed by the Georgina River to the north, is currently filling the Lake Machattie wetland area and breathing life into everything it touches along its journey to Munga-Thirri Simpson Desert. This event is drawing an abundance of nesting bird life to the area which is only able to be enjoyed from the air.
No matter which system you’re interested in – Birdsville Aviation has tailored Scenic Flight routes for 2025 to take in the best our region currently offers.
You can see water lapping the edge of our township Birdsville, although it looks like our small town might be in danger of getting "wet feet", when the town was surveyed in 1885, one thing the authorities did get correct was the height of the town above the Diamantina River. Please note that even though the channel county is in flood, Rex is still operating its usual twice weekly services to and from Brisbane. You may even choose to fly with Qantas to Mount Isa and use Rex from Mount Isa to Birdsville.
Scenic Flights and Air Tours on Offer
Birdsville & Channel Country Flood Extraordinaire
Birdsville Township & Big Red
Lake Eyre, Cooper Creek & Landing at William Creek Township
How to Book
Bookings can be made any number of ways including:
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Submitting our online booking form below.
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Email your booking request to bookings@birdsvillehotel.com.au.
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In person at the Birdsville Hotel reception.
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By phoning hotel reception on 07 4656 3244.
Aircraft
Birdsville Aviation (in conjunction with Wrights air at William Creek) operate multiple aircraft including Cessna Grand Caravan’s that feature a high wing configuration, air-conditioning, 13 seats, fold down steps for the ease of walk on walk off comfort and turbine engine reliability. We also operates Cessna 210’s which are a 5 seater, high wing aircraft utilised for smaller parties. The high wing configuration of our fleet offer’s remarkable uninterrupted views for all on board.
Birdsville Aviation
Birdsville Aviation is an owned and operated subsidiary of the famous Birdsville Hotel, also owners of the Birdsville Bakery. Birdsville Aviation has for 40 years operated the aviation fuel business in town. All Birdsville Aviation scenic flights are operated in conjunction with Wrights Air. Wrights Air are based in William Creek, South Australia and have been operating for over 25 years. They have a legendary reputation of providing exceptional scenic flights in exceptional aircraft in the remote Australian outback.
The owners of the Hotel (and Birdsville Aviation) have a long history in the aviation and tourism industries with Talia Ellis once being based at the small ‘outpost’ of William Creek. Once a junior pilot for Wrights Air, Talia quickly rose to being the company chief pilot and for 7 years had up to 20 aircraft and pilots working under her. After her time at Wrights Air Talia moved to be chief pilot of Spirit Aviation, the aircraft subsidiary of outback touring business, Outback Spirit, until purchasing the Birdsville Hotel with her husband in 2019. Talia has extensive bush flying experience and has spent the majority of her time in the Birdsville and William Creek regions of Australia. From mustering stock on remote stations to scenic flights, Talia’s extensive experience in the aviation and scenic flight world will ensure you a safe and unforgettable flight, no matter what itinerary you choose.