Australian airline Jetstar has announced it will scrap its free 7kg carry-on baggage allowance and instead charge passengers at least £13 to stow larger bags in overhead lockers. The new policy takes effect from February 2027.
New charges and policy details
Under the change, customers will still be able to bring a small bag that fits under the seat at no extra cost. However, taking a larger bag to store in overhead lockers will incur a fee starting at AUS$25 (£13.08), which could rise to AUS$50 (£26.15) on certain routes.
The move aligns Jetstar with European budget carriers like Ryanair and easyJet, which already charge for carry-on luggage. Passengers paying the fee will receive "Priority Carry-on", allowing them to board after business class passengers but before those with only under-seat bags.
Reactions and criticism
Jetstar's chief executive, Stephanie Tully, said the new rules would "make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time". A spokesperson told the BBC the prices were a "fair example" but could rise "based on demand" and weren't guaranteed.
The decision has sparked anger among travellers. One unnamed passenger told 7News Sydney: "We're already paying enough for our luggage. Everything's an extra." Another critic on social media asked: "Minimum of $25 to use an overhead locker in the plane. What next? A fee to use the toilet?"
Another quoted by the BBC said: "We pay for food and drink, the seat and checked baggage already... what's next... $10 for the use of soap and toilet paper in the bathroom?" A third wrote: "I don't get it. Airlines encourage you to take less stuff, hand luggage only, to save costs, then they turn around and slug you for it."
However, one supporter welcomed the change, saying too many large suitcases in overhead lockers left no room for others. They wrote: "Sick of people with several bags taking all the space. This is what happens when you are selfish and inconsiderate. We all get punished."
