Aviation expert and retired airline captain Steven Arroyo discusses Jetstar’s plan to charge for overhead-bin luggage and why passenger response could determine whether similar policies spread.
Jetstar is facing some pushback after announcing its passengers will soon have to pay extra to put their carry-on bags in the overhead bin.
The Australian budget airline, owned by Qantas, will require passengers to pay fees from $25 AUD (about $18) per overhead bag per flight starting in Feb. 2027.
The "priority carry-on" purchase will include priority boarding. Passengers will not be charged for a smaller bag, such as a backpack, handbag or laptop bag, that can fit under the seat in front of them.
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The updated policy replaces Jetstar’s previous carry-on rules, which allowed passengers to bring carry-on luggage up to a total of 7kg (about 15.4 pounds) aboard.
Fox News Digital reached out to Jetstar for comment.
Jetstar has ignited backlash among some customers (not pictured) after announcing that flight passengers will soon have to pay extra to put carry-on bags in an overhead bin. (Jetstar)
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Steven Arroyo, an aviation expert based in Florida and a retired captain for United Airlines, said the new policy can "certainly expedite the boarding process."
He also said other airlines may follow suit.
"Oil prices have doubled. It's a third of an airline's expense," he said.
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Arroyo said the cost will have an impact on larger families.
"If you're traveling with a big family, it's going to [have] impact," he said.
Starting in February 2027, the airline will require passengers to pay fees for overhead bin space. (iStock)