Virgin Australia Economy passengers will be able to upweight carry-on baggage but take fewer bags on board in an update to its cabin luggage limits from next year. The airline has also introduced a ‘Neighbour Free Seating‘ option to bid for more space.
The airline will allow Economy passengers to carry up to 8kg in cabin baggage weight, however only one single, standard-sized carry-on bag will be allowed on board from 2 February 2026.
Economy passengers can currently bring two carry-on luggage items, weighing up to 7kg combined, plus a small personal item on board.
Business Class, Economy X and other loyalty program members can carry two bags up to 14kg, plus one small item. The same size limits will continue to apply.
The carry-on luggage limit changes, which will be enforced at major airports, are expected to streamline the boarding process and facilitate a more comfortable onboard experience, avoiding the frustration due to lack of space in overhead bins.
Virgin Australia Chief Operations Officer Chris Snook said the changes were based on team member and guest feedback.
“We want your bag where you sit,” he said. “These changes will help deliver an enhanced onboard experience, while keeping the boarding process simple and consistent.
“The result will be a smoother start to the journey and a more comfortable experience on board.”
The airline said a passenger survey found 79 per cent wanted airlines to enforce carry-on rules.
Neighbour Free Seating: More elbow room now on board
In addition, eligible Economy flyers can now submit a bid on the Virgin Australia app to reserve an empty seat beside them on select flights for extra comfort and privacy. Bids start from $30.
The innovative Neighbour Free Seating service is now available on select Virgin Australia-operated domestic and short-haul international services and will have a wider rollout after the trial period.
It comes after a 2023 Velocity Frequent Flyer consumer survey revealed 42 per cent of Virgin Australia passengers would consider paying a fee to have the middle seat empty on international flights more than three hours, while over one-third (35 per cent) would do the same on a domestic flight more than three hours.
Virgin Australia Executive Libby Minogue said: “Neighbour Free Seating is a clever add-on for Economy travellers who want the certainty of extra space without the price tag.”
For more info, head to virginaustralia.com
