JetBlue adds perk for basic economy: ‘It’s about time’ [Video]

(NEXSTAR) – JetBlue will soon allow the airline’s basic economy passengers to bring a single carry-on bag in addition to a smaller personal item, free of charge.

The policy change, which takes effect on Sept. 6, is intended to keep JetBlue “competitive” in the airline industry, the carrier announced in a press release issued Tuesday.

“Carry-on bags are an important part of travel to customers, and when presented with a choice between JetBlue’s award-winning service and another carrier’s basic offering, we want JetBlue to be the easy winner,” said JetBlue President Marty St. George in Tuesday’s release.

Currently, JetBlue’s basic economy travelers — or “Blue Basic,” as JetBlue calls this tier — are only allowed “a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you,” per JetBlue’s website. Carry-on bags brought to the gate will be checked at a fee of $65 for the first two, and $180 for a third.

JetBlue does, …