JetBlue Takes Away Overhead Bin Access

Good news and bad news from JetBlue on the carry-on bags front. The airline announced that for Basic Blue fares (JetBlue’s cheapest ticket category), they will be eliminating access to the overhead bins, and ticket-holders will only be allowed to bring on carry-on luggage that will fit underneath the seat in front of them.

The new policy applies to tickets booked on or after February 25, 2021 for travel July 20, 2021 or later. According to JetBlue, “Mosaic members, travelers combining a Blue Basic fare with an Even More Space seat, active military and unaccompanied minors may still bring a carry-on bag, but only Even More Space customers are guaranteed to get their bag onboard.”

However, if you’re traveling on one of JetBlue’s more expensive fare categories (Blue, Blue Extra and Mint), there is some good news—starting July 20, 2021, JetBlue is guaranteeing overhead space availability on domestic flights. If you’re forced to gate-check your bag, you’ll receive a $25 travel bank credit that’s valid for 12 months.

So now when you fly JetBlue, you’ll have to ask yourself—how much is it worth it to you to not wait at baggage claim?

In addition to the new carry-on policies, JetBlue has recently made some changes to its change/cancellation policy.

For fares booked April 1, 2021 or later, the following rules will apply:

• No change or cancellation fees for Blue, Blue Plus and Mint fares on all routes. Difference in fare applies. Same-day switches can be made for $75 (or free for Mosaic members), without paying a fare difference.
• No change or cancellation fees (difference in fare applies), and free same-day switches, for Blue Extra fares.
• Blue Basic fares can be changed or cancelled for a fee, based on route.