Budget airline Jetstar is making a big change to the way passengers travel, and it’s already got plenty of people talking.
The airline has revealed that from February 2027, travellers will no longer automatically be able to place a standard carry-on bag in the overhead lockers as part of their fare. Instead, every booking will include just one small item that needs to fit underneath the seat, such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag. Anyone wanting to use the overhead compartments will need to pay extra for a new add-on called Priority Carry-on.
While budget airlines have long built their business models around optional extras, the announcement has struck a nerve with travellers who feel like more and more elements of flying are being separated from the ticket price.
Under the new system, passengers can purchase access to overhead locker space, with fees expected to start from around $25 for some routes and climb above $50 on others. The add-on also includes priority boarding, meaning customers who pay will be among the first to get on the aircraft and secure a spot in the overhead bins.
At the same time, Jetstar is scrapping its long-standing 7kg carry-on weight limit. Instead of weighing bags, the airline is shifting to a size-based model. Travellers will still be able to bring a small under-seat item at no extra cost, but larger bags that previously would have gone into the overhead locker will now come with an additional charge.
Jetstar says the changes are designed to reduce some of the biggest frustrations passengers experience at the airport, including bag weigh-ins at the gate and fights for space in overhead compartments. The airline also believes the new approach could speed up boarding and help flights leave on time.
Still, not everyone is convinced. Social media users were quick to question whether the move is really about convenience or simply another way to increase revenue from passengers already dealing with rising travel costs.
The changes won’t take effect until February 2027, and customers who already have bookings beyond that date will reportedly receive the upgraded carry-on option at no additional charge. But for future travellers, the message is clear: if your bag is headed for the overhead locker, you’ll need to budget for it.
Whether passengers embrace the change or push back against it remains to be seen.
