Jetstar deserves applause for its carry-on fees. I hope it goes further

August 6, 2026 — 1:30pm

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Jetstar has been copping it for days since it was revealed the airline would change its rules for carry-on baggage and impose additional costs. I’m begging the carrier to treat this storm of consumer outrage like a turbulent flight. Hold your breath and get through it – we’ll be back on the ground before you know it.

In fact, I urge Jetstar to go further. Why not bring in a swag of user-pays fees? I know, you’re asking how the airline could do this to you, but the real question is: What are you going to do about it? The answer for me is: precisely nothing.

I think Jetstar should be applauded for clearly communicating this change, and waiting to implement it until well after the summer peak period. As the airline rightly points out, other budget airlines around the world follow a similar model. Jetstar hasn’t introduced these additional fees, only adopted them.

Honestly, I get scared on the plane. I need the invisible hand........

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