Jetstar’s New Carry-On Luggage Fee

Low-cost carrier Jetstar will introduce a new charge for carry-on luggage starting next year, marking a shift that could make airfare comparisons more complex and less transparent. According to the airline, this change aligns with practices seen in other low-cost carriers around the world.

The new structure means Jetstar passengers will only receive one ‘under seat bag’ as part of their ticket price; additional luggage must be stowed overhead and comes with a fee. This move follows similar policies from competitors like Ryanair, which charges €12 to €36 for carrying an extra piece of luggage on short-haul flights.

Graeme Hughes, a consumer expert at Griffith University, highlighted the potential frustration for travelers. 'This allows Jetstar to promote very cheap prices but ensures that additional costs are revealed during the booking process,' he said. Andy Kelly from Choice, an advocacy group, criticized it as 'just another way to make easy cash.' The new fees could add up quickly: passengers might already be paying $20 for seat selection and around $50 for cancellation rights.

In the European Union, there are efforts to mandate that airlines display inclusive fares at the start of the booking process. However, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair charge between €18 and €60 for large carry-on luggage on domestic flights. In the United States, carriers such as JetBlue and Southwest include a small personal item and a larger bag in their base fare, while Frontier bases its fees on the route.

The move by Jetstar is part of a broader trend where basic airline services are monetized to boost revenue. This practice can make it difficult for travelers to compare different fares effectively. As airlines continue to innovate and adapt pricing models, consumer advocates remain vigilant about ensuring fair practices.