Jetstar passengers handed win as multiple fees waived amid worker action

Jetstar customers are set to be handed a win today with a number of fees waived as workers fight for higher pay and better working conditions.

Around 1000 Jetstar customer service staff are taking protected industrial action across major airports, with passengers set to benefit from the unusual move.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Jetstar passengers score free baggage during pay dispute

The Australian Services Union (ASU) confirmed the industrial action will begin at 12.01am on Wednesday and run until midnight on Thursday.

The industrial action means extra baggage fees will be waived on Jetstar flights around the country during the action.

Passengers carrying additional luggage, sporting equipment, or other bulky items will not incur the usual extra charges at check-in.

Workers will continue assisting passengers as usual but will not collect additional fees on Jetstar’s behalf; excess baggage, seat selection, and late fees will be recorded as $0.

Jetstar workers seek range of changes

The unexpected savings for customers come as Jetstar customer service workers continue their fight for improved pay and conditions.

Workers are seeking wage increases, along with higher overtime payments, additional loading for morning shifts, improved leave, weather protections and greater job security.

The industrial action has been timed to coincide with a busy period for the airline, with the AFL and NRL grand finals approaching and school holidays underway in Queensland and Victoria.

The union says the workers voted in favour of protected industrial action following a ballot in late August, with members seeking wages aligned with other Qantas Group employees.

A spokesperson for Jetstar assured operations will not be impacted by the planned action.

“We’ve put a comprehensive and fair offer on the table that includes pay increases, improved penalty payments and allowances, as well as more flexibility in rostering,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a great package for our people, which also allows us to keep investing in our fleet and grow our network while keeping fares low, despite escalating fuel costs impacting the industry.”

The airline said it is “committed to working constructively towards an outcome”.