Jetstar introduces paid overhead-locker option, up to $52 per flight

Jetstar announced a overhaul of its cabin-baggage policy that will take effect in February 2027, scrapping the current 7 kg weight restriction for carry-ons. Every passenger will receive one under-seat bag allowance, such as a backpack or laptop case, and can purchase a “Priority Carry-on” add-on that grants a second, larger bag for the overhead locker and priority boarding. The optional fee is route-dependent, costing $25 on the Launceston-Sydney run, $33 Sydney-Melbourne, and up to $52 on the Cairns-Tokyo flight.

The airline argues the change, based on crew and customer feedback, will reduce gate-side weighing hassles, improve overhead locker utilisation, and help flights depart on time. While cabin-baggage scales will be removed, passengers are still asked to keep bags under 10 kg for safe handling. Travelers with infants can take an additional under-seat bag for baby items without extra charge, and checked-baggage rules remain unchanged.