Jetstar Introduces Fees for Overhead Bin Access on Flights

WHO:

AP News - Jetstar is the budget Australian airline introducing new fees.

AP News - Stephanie Tully is the CEO of Jetstar.

AP News - Sharon Petersen is the CEO of AirlineRatings.com.

WHAT:

ABC News - Jetstar will charge passengers for using overhead compartments starting February 2027.

AP News - The cost for using the overhead compartments will start from 25 Australian dollars ($18) one way.

AP News - Bags stowed in the overhead lockers can weigh up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

AP News - The existing weight limit of 7 kilograms (15 pounds) for small items under seats will be scrapped.

WHERE:

AP News - The airline operates in Australia and New Zealand.

WHEN:

ABC News - The new fees for overhead compartment use will begin in February 2027.

WHY:

AP News - The change aims to reduce frustrations at boarding gates and streamline the boarding process.

AP News - Passengers and airline staff identified issues with having bags weighed at the gate and finding room in overhead lockers as stressful parts of the airport experience.

HOW:

AP News - Passengers can stow a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack under the seat for no charge, while overhead compartment use will incur a fee.

AP News - Jetstar plans to make better use of overhead locker space by offering an underseat bag with the option to add Priority Carry-on.

(UPDATED August 5, 2026 13:38 UTC)

Jetstar, the budget airline operating in Australia and New Zealand, is set to introduce new fees for using overhead compartments starting in February 2027, with charges beginning at 25 Australian dollars, or about 18 dollars one way. Passengers will still be able to stow smaller items like purses or laptop bags under their seats for free, but the existing weight limit for these items will be removed, allowing for a more streamlined boarding process. This change comes as a response to frustrations expressed by passengers and airline staff regarding the boarding experience, particularly around the challenges of weighing bags at the gate and finding space in overhead lockers.