Jetstar to charge passengers up to $52 to put baggage in overhead lockers

Jetstar Overhauls Carry-On Baggage Rules, Adds Fees for Overhead Space

Jetstar has announced a major change to its carry-on baggage policy, set to take effect in February 2027. The airline will scrap its free 7kg carry-on allowance and instead charge passengers a fee to store luggage in the overhead lockers. The new policy, described by the airline as a response to customer feedback, will allow each passenger one underseat bag at no extra cost, with larger bags requiring a fee.

The fee for overhead locker space will start at $25 for short domestic flights and can rise to more than $52 on certain international routes, such as the Cairns to Tokyo service. The airline says the change aims to stream streamline boarding, reduce stress related to weighing bags at the gate, and help flights depart on time.

Coverage Comparison

Coverage of the announcement varied, with ABC Australia providing detailed reporting on the policy specifics. The Guardian noted the change while also highlighting a government decision to drop the so-called 'widow tax' on negative gearing, and quoted independent Senator David Pocock, who made separate comments about housing affordability. The South China Morning Post framed the move in the context of budget airlines in the Asia-Pacific region, with analysts describing the fee as an extreme example of what they call 'unbundling.'

Consumer reactions have been largely critical, with the group Choice calling the new charge a simple way for the airline to increase revenue. "Travellers are getting increasingly sick of being nickelled and dimed by airlines," said Andy Kelly, a spokesperson for Choice, as reported by the ABC. Aviation experts have also weighed experts, with some noting that while the model is common among low-cost carriers in Europe and the United States, it is a significant shift for the Australian market.

Key Claims

• New Fee Structure: From February 2027, passengers will pay a fee starting at $25 for overhead locker space, with the amount exceeding $52 on some long-haul routes.
• Removal of 7kg Limit: The airline will eliminate the 7kg weight limit for carry-on bags, replacing it with a size-based system.
• Underseat Bag Included: All fares will include one underseat bag (e.g., backpack, handbag, laptop bag) up to 40x30x20 cm.
• Priority Carry-on Option: Customers can purchase 'Priority Carry-on' for a second, larger bag (max 56x36x23 cm) and board early.
• No Changes to Checked Baggage Fees: Jetstar's checked baggage fees remain unchanged.

Perspectives

The independent senator David Pocock, in comments published by the Guardian, linked the baggage fee news to broader housing affordability issues, calling for action on housing prices. While not directly related to the airline's decision, his remarks highlight ongoing public concern about the cost of living.

Consumer group Choice has been vocal in its criticism, with spokesperson Andy Kelly, quoted in the ABC, describing the new charge as an attempt to extract more money from passengers. Aviation consultant Justin Wastnage, also speaking to the ABC, suggested the move could be seen as a way for Jetstar to increase revenue while appearing competitive on price.

Jetstar's CEO, Stephanie Tully, issued a statement defending the changes, stating, "Our new carry-on baggage model provides Choice, while helping keep our fares low. You only pay for what you need." The airline has stated that the decision follows extensive research and feedback from customers and crew.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Jetstar's move may signal a shift in how budget carriers in the region approach ancillary revenues. But whether other airlines will follow remains to be seen.