Jetstar to charge for overhead cabin bags from February 2027

Jetstar, the low‑cost arm of Australia’s national carrier Qantas, announced that from 2 February 2027 passengers will no longer receive free use of the overhead lockers. Each booking will include only one small personal item that fits under the seat. Travelers who want to store a larger carry‑on in the overhead compartment must purchase a “Priority Carry‑on” add‑on, with fees ranging from AU$25 on short domestic routes to up to AU$52 on longer international sectors.

The airline also removed the 7 kg weight limit for cabin baggage, allowing the paid overhead bag to weigh up to 10 kg and no longer weighing bags routinely at the gate. The Priority Carry‑on service includes priority boarding. Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the change will streamline boarding, make better use of overhead space and improve on‑time performance. Consumer groups have criticised the move as a “cash grab”, arguing that base fares no longer reflect the true cost of travel.