Jetstar is to start charging for overhead baggage and is doing away with gate check-ins from early next year.
The airline to scrapping its current carry-on weight limit (7kg) as it shifts from a weight to size limit model.
Prices for overhead storage will range from $25 to $52 per bag or suitcase and takes effect on February 2, 2027.
A free underseat bag such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag will be allowed and the airline says there will be no change to its checked baggage allowance.
Travellers needing more carry-on baggage can pre-purchase a Priority Carry-on option for a second, larger bag for the overhead locker and priority boarding.
The airline claims the move has been fuelled by their research and by public feedback that identified carry-on weigh-ins at the gate and lack of space in lockers as stressful parts of their journey.
JETSTAR SAYS MOVE ‘MAKES THE TRIP EASIER’
Airline CEO Stephanie Tully says weigh-ins at the gate “can be frustrating” for crew and passengers alike.
“To make packing easier we’ve decided to remove the 7kg weight limit; from February, the main thing customers will need to think about is the size of their carry-on,” she says.
Tully believes that the option of buying overhead space will allow for a better use of the lockers, streamline boarding, and help more flights depart on time.
“Our new carry-on baggage model provides more choice to customers while helping to keep our fares low,” she says.
“You only pay for what you need – travelling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need”
Customers with existing bookings after February 2, 2027, will be upgraded to Priority Carry-on for free while carry-on changes will not apply to Jetstar Japan (GK) flights.
OTHER CARRY-ON CHANGES
- Jetstar says it will no longer use cabin baggage scales but asks customers to keep carry-on bags to 10kg for safety.
- Travellers with an infant can on take an extra underseat bag for baby items for free.
- Underseat bags with every fare up to 40 × 30 × 20cm.
- Overhead bag (with Priority Carry-on) up to 56 × 36 × 23cm and priority boarding.
- Priority Carry-on to be limited and range from $25-$52 one-way on selected flights excluding group bookings (10+ passengers).
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