JetBlue is introducing a new policy that will allow passengers with Blue Basic tickets to bring a complimentary carry-on bag starting on September 6. Previously, passengers with Blue Basic tickets had to pay extra or upgrade their fare to bring a carry-on bag on board. Now, all customers, regardless of when their tickets were purchased, will be able to bring a carry-on for free.
According to JetBlue’s president Marty St. George, the airline aims to provide the best service compared to other carriers and the decision to offer free carry-on bags with basic economy fares is in response to customer preferences and to keep JetBlue competitive in the industry. Even though many planes are equipped with large overhead bins, if space is limited, carry-ons will be checked at the gate at no extra cost to the passengers.
Passengers with Blue Basic tickets will still board among the last and are subject to a cancellation fee, which does not apply to other fare levels. This updated policy comes at a time when other airlines like Spirit Airlines are also implementing changes to improve customer retention. For example, Spirit Airlines has increased the weight limit for checked bags and extended the validity of travel vouchers.
JetBlue has adjusted its operations in an effort to become more profitable, including reducing flights in some cities
