JetBlue Airways passengers booking a basic economy fare class, which the airline calls Blue Basic, can now bring a carry-on bag for free in addition to a personal item.
The price change, which was announced in June and went into effect on Sept. 6, 2024, marks a departure from the airline’s previous policy, which had restricted basic economy passengers on domestic flights to a single personal item, such as a laptop bag or purse.
By allowing passengers to bring a carry-on item, JetBlue joins the ranks of most other major airlines, which allow both a carry-on and personal item for basic economy customers. Only a few major U.S. airlines still charge extra for a carry–on bag on standard fares, including Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
The fine print
The pricing update comes with some fine print, though: The ability to bring a carry-on bag aboard is space permitting. Since Blue Basic travelers also tend to be the last to board, that means Blue Basic passengers may have to check their bags anyway if the folks in front already filled up the overhead bin space.
At least this time they’ll be able to send their first carry-on along with the other checked luggage for free, avoiding the previous checked bag fee of $35 to $40 on domestic flights (JetBlue uses variable peak pricing to determine exact checked bag fees).
This price change does not affect existing rules around checked bags, which still cost travelers on Blue, Blue Basic or Blue Extra fares between $35 and $40 for the first bag. Prices for a second checked bag range from $50 to $60. Passengers traveling on Blue Plus get their first checked bag for free.
Fees are under more scrutiny
The JetBlue news signals an increasing trend in the travel industry toward fewer fees and more pricing transparency.
The change comes at a time when some regulators are cracking down on junk fees. The California junk fee ban, which went into effect in July 2024, requires that mandatory fees be displayed at the time of booking. That prohibits hotels from tacking on surprise resort fees at checkout, for example. (Because bringing luggage is not truly a requirement to travel, baggage fees aren’t prohibited under this ban.)
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Conclusion
With JetBlue’s recent policy change allowing Blue Basic passengers to bring a carry-on bag for free, it’s clear that the travel industry is moving towards more transparency and fewer fees. This shift comes at a time when regulators are cracking down on hidden charges, creating a more traveler-friendly environment. While some fine print remains in terms of space availability for carry-on bags, the overall trend is positive for passengers looking to avoid additional fees. As airlines continue to adjust their policies in response to market demand and regulatory pressures, travelers can hope for more favorable conditions and a smoother journey ahead.
