Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar announced it will begin charging passengers for storing carry-on bags in overhead compartments as part of a comprehensive overhaul of its cabin baggage policy.

The new policy takes effect in February 2027 and will cost travelers between $18 and $37 depending on the route to stow large bags on a one-way flight. Bags placed in overhead lockers can weigh up to 22 pounds and will no longer be weighed by airline staff before boarding, eliminating the current 15-pound limit. The pre-purchase option, branded as "Priority Carry-on," also includes early boarding access.

Passengers will still be permitted to stow smaller items — such as a purse, laptop bag, or backpack that falls within specified dimensions — under the seat in front of them at no charge.

The policy shift follows feedback from passengers and airline staff who described having bags weighed at the gate and struggling to find overhead locker space as among the most stressful parts of the airport experience, the company said in a statement. Jetstar said the change is designed to reduce frustrations at boarding gates.

"By giving customers an underseat bag with the option to add Priority Carry-on, we can make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time," Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said in a statement.

"You only pay for what you need — traveling with less means paying less, and you can always add more if you need," Tully added.

Baggage fees, excess luggage charges, seat selection, and priority boarding make up a growing share of revenue for budget airlines, part of an industry-wide unbundling model in which carriers advertise lower base fares and charge separately for services that were once included. Jetstar, owned by Qantas, operates as the group's low-cost arm serving domestic and short-haul international routes across the Asia-Pacific region. Consumer groups have criticized such charges, arguing that advertised base fares do not reflect the true cost of travel.

Jetstar becomes the latest low-cost carrier to introduce a payment requirement for carry-on bags. Budget airlines in the United States and Europe frequently charge passengers to use overhead compartments. While Australian and New Zealand carriers already charge for checked luggage, seat selection, and certain dining and in-flight entertainment options, Jetstar's announcement makes it the first airline in the region to charge for overhead locker use.

Australian opposition Sen. Bridget McKenzie said on social media that the new changes amounted to a "cash grab."

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said airlines should disclose any additional charges to passengers at the time of ticket purchase to avoid "surprises" at the airport.

"Jetstar claim this change is to keep fares affordable. It will be up to them to demonstrate that to passengers," King said in a statement.

Reuters contributed to this report.