Jetstar is weighing a major overhaul of its carry-on baggage rules as passengers continue to be slugged up to $110 at the boarding gate under its strict policy.
The budget airline allows 7kg of carry-on on basic fares — split between one larger item for the overhead locker and one smaller item under the seat.
Passengers can pre-purchase an extra 7kg for $60 on domestic flights and $85 on international routes.
But those caught overweight at the gate are hit harder — $85 for domestic flights and a hefty $110 for international.
Jetstar’s head of network and fleet Ted Knight admitted that the policy was a “pain point” for travellers.
“Sometimes you’re walking up to the gate and you get that kind of gate anxiety and you’re not sure whether you weighed your bag correctly,” he said.
Mr Knight said the airline was reviewing its carry-on rules in a bid to “reduce pain points” and deliver a smoother experience.
Jetstar is looking at US airline models where domestic carry-on is restricted by size rather than weight — a move that would be a first for an Australian carrier.
“At the moment it’s weight-based, we’re looking at different options for sizes,” Mr Knight said.
Any changes would need to factor in aircraft weight and balance limits.
Planes have a strict maximum take-off weight that includes fuel, crew, passengers, food supplies and baggage — and incorrect loading can cause serious flight control issues.