Jetstar announced it will implement a new carry-on luggage fee structure beginning next year, with tickets including only one personal item that fits under the seat. Passengers wishing to bring a stowed carry-on bag will face additional charges, adding to existing fees for checked baggage, seat selection, cancellation options, and food services.
The pricing change reflects a broader industry trend where airlines charge for services traditionally considered basic amenities. Multiple carriers now offer passengers the ability to pay for empty seat selection, while some have restructured cabins to charge for reclining seats. Airlines typically justify such practices as part of a user-pay model that keeps advertised prices low for budget-conscious travelers.
Consumer advocates argue the practice obscures true ticket costs. Graeme Hughes, a consumer expert at Griffith University, noted that while airlines can advertise low base fares, customers encounter additional charges during the booking process, making price comparisons difficult. Andy Kelly from consumer group Choice characterized the policy as “just an easy cash grab,” pointing out that customers may face $20 seat selection fees, $50 cancellation charges, and $50 loyalty program costs on top of base fares.
The European Union recently mandated that airlines, booking platforms, and search engines display fares inclusive of carry-on luggage to facilitate price comparisons. This requirement followed significant airline pushback against earlier proposals to guarantee passengers free carry-on bag rights. Jetstar positioned its policy as aligned with international low-cost carriers, noting the model keeps fares low since customers “only pay for what you need.”
Most European low-cost carriers already charge carry-on fees, with Ryanair and EasyJet being prominent examples. In the United States, carriers vary in their approaches, with JetBlue and Southwest including carry-on allowances in base fares while Frontier charges route-based fees. According to analysis, Jetstar’s overhead bag fees for international flights can exceed $100, comparable to international pricing structures at other carriers.
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