Australia’s budget airline Jetstar will introduce new charges for passengers who want to bring overhead luggage onto flights, marking a controversial change to its existing cabin baggage rules. The policy, which will take effect in February 2027, replaces the airline’s previous limit of 7 kg for hand luggage.
Customers to pay for overhead access
The budget carrier – which is part of the national airline Qantas – has outlined a new system that allows all travellers to bring one small under-seat item at no extra cost. Any passenger who wishes to bring larger, overhead items must now pay an additional fee. In a statement, Jetstar provided example prices for overhead luggage, which start at AU$25 for shorter, domestic flights and range to AU$52 on longer, international routes. The airline suggested that prices could be dynamic, depending on demand.
Jetstar will also introduce a new “Priority Carry-On”, which includes overhead locker space, early boarding and the removal of former weight restrictions. The airline said the changes follow customer and crew feedback, which identified current boarding systems as a cause of passenger stress.
Chief Executive, Stephanie Tully, said that changes reflect the airline’s low fare structure and are intended to improve boarding efficiency and departure performance, adding they would:
“Make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time.”
Public and Political Backlash
The announcement has prompted criticism from passengers and politicians, with opposition senator Bridget McKenzie describing the change as a “cash grab”.
A spokesperson on behalf of Federal Transport Minister Catherine King encouraged transparency when it comes to additional pricing, adding:
“Jetstar claim this change is to keep fares affordable. It will be up to them to demonstrate that to passengers.”
Public reaction on social media featured several angry and sarcastic remarks criticising the new overhead locker fees. One user wrote:
“Minimum of A$25 to use an overhead locker in the plane. What next? A fee to use the toilet?” Another commented “We pay for food and drink, the seat and checked baggage already… what’s next… A$10 for the use of soap and toilet paper in the bathroom?”
New EU Legislation
While Australian travellers face new cabin baggage costs, the European Parliament has recently approved regulations that move in the opposite direction.
Under the revised EU rules, airlines must display fares inclusive of carry on charges from the outset of the booking process. Although airlines argue the regulations will lead to higher ticket prices, air travellers will continue to benefit from free cabin luggage. Carriers will still be permitted to offer cheaper tickets to passengers who choose to travel without hand luggage.
The rules also clarify cabin baggage entitlements by ensuring passengers are allowed to bring a free personal item measuring up to 40 cm by 30 cm by 15 cm. The decision follows more than a decade of negotiations with EU member states.
At present, European budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet charge an additional fee for small wheeled items, including small bags and backpacks. The 2027 regulation will standardise baggage requirements and fee transparency across all airlines operating in the region.
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