What is the jetstar baggage policy review about?

Jetstar is reassessing its carry-on rules. The airline is considering moving from weight-based checks to size-based limits or higher allowances. The goal is to cut boarding delays and reduce customer frustration from surprise fees. Any change would also affect ancillary revenue, on-time performance, and brand perception across Qantas Group.

How does this compare with Virgin Australia baggage policy?

Virgin introduced an 8kg single-bag rule for carry-on. That simplified enforcement but tightened flexibility for travellers carrying two light items. Jetstar’s review may lean toward size-based checks or higher limits, aiming for faster boarding and fewer disputes while staying competitive with Virgin on customer experience and turnaround times.

Could Qantas cabin baggage rules change too?

Qantas and Jetstar serve overlapping customers, so clearer alignment helps avoid confusion on connecting trips. If Jetstar moves to size-based checks, Qantas cabin baggage communications may be refined for consistency. Any material change would be announced by Qantas directly, but investors should watch for harmonised guidance across the Group.

Will fares or fees change if carry-on weight limits are scrapped?

If overweight penalties fall, airlines can rebalance through bundled offers, pre-paid checked bags, or priority options. The aim is stable revenue with a better experience. Base fares may not need to move if operational gains from faster boarding and fewer disputes offset any decline in penalty fee income.

Global Market Insights

February 14: Jetstar May Scrap Carry-On Weight Limits Amid Policy Review

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 14, 2026February 14, 2026

The jetstar baggage policy review could reset cabin rules on Australian routes. Jetstar is weighing a move from weight-based checks to size-based limits or higher allowances. This responds to customer pain points and rising competition after Virgin’s 8kg single-bag change. For investors, any update shapes ancillary revenue, boarding speeds, and customer loyalty across Qantas Group. We unpack what a potential rule change means, how rivals compare, and what to watch in the coming weeks of this jetstar baggage policy review.