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Jetstar to charge for use of overhead lockers for carry-on bags
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Jetstar, a budget Australian airline, will begin charging passengers from February 2027 for storing carry-on bags in overhead compartments, with fees starting at 25 Australian dollars ($18) one way depending on the route.
- Passengers can still bring a small item like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack to place under the seat at no extra charge, with the weight limit for these items increased to 7 kilograms and overhead locker bags allowed up to 10 kilograms.
- The airline introduced this change to reduce boarding gate frustrations, improve overhead locker space usage, and help flights depart on time by streamlining the boarding process.
- This policy makes Jetstar the first Australian or New Zealand carrier to charge for overhead locker use, aligning with similar practices common among low-cost carriers in the US and Europe.
- Industry experts note that while the move may upset Australian travelers accustomed to full-service options, Jetstar's base fares remain higher than many European low-budget airlines due to less competition and higher operating costs in Australia.
