Jetstar Says “Yes, Grandpa’s Ashes Need To Go Under Your Seat”

KEITH T. DENNETT | New South | CONTACT

Australia’s busiest public relations department is once again flat out today, as Jetstar attempts to squash national outrage regarding the recent changes to its policy baggage.

After announcing yesterday that from next February, the airline will scrap the 7kg carry-on rule, and instead slug passengers an additional fee to stow luggage in overhead lockers, the PR team at Jetstar headquarters are run off their feet. 

Having copped a flogging across national mastheads and social media in the last 48 hours, the team of 20 PR professionals are doing their best to control the narrative, and make it sound like the changes are actually a good thing for customers, and actually kind of the customers fault.

After fielding calls from our office this morning, Jetstar have confirmed to The Advocate that people travelling with the cremated remains of loved ones, need to fork out $25 to store them safely, or be asked to chuck them under the seat.

“Whilst we understand customers sometimes travel with items of profound personal significance, including cremated remains, our cabin baggage policies are applied consistently, to support aeronautical safety and operational efficiency of our airline,” the spokesperson replied via email.

“We’re also mindful that some customers may attempt to carry ashes in their pockets or in an empty coffee cup to avoid the fees, so we’ll be doing pocket checks and pat downs at major airports from Feb.”

Speaking to one traveller at Betoota Aerodrome this morning, Rick Carlock says he’s infuriated by the changes.

“I’m flying to Hervey Bay today to spread Grandpa out at Burrum Heads. Lucky he passed this year, would’ve cost me an extra $25 to take him to his own memorial service if he kicked the bucket in 2027.”

More to come.