Frontier Airlines, a prominent ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States, offers budget-conscious travelers an alternative to traditional airlines. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Frontier has carved out a niche in the competitive airline industry by providing no-frills service at rock-bottom prices. However, like any budget airline, Frontier comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages that potential passengers should carefully consider before booking.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low base fares | Additional fees for baggage and seat selection |
| Newer, fuel-efficient fleet | Limited route network and flight frequencies |
| Eco-friendly initiatives | No complimentary in-flight amenities |
| Flexible fare options | Tight seating and limited legroom |
| Potential for significant savings | Inconsistent customer service experiences |
| Stretch seating available for purchase | Higher likelihood of delays and cancellations |
| Frequent sales and promotions | Limited options for rebooking on cancelled flights |
| FRONTIER Miles loyalty program | No Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment |
Advantages of Flying Frontier Airlines
Low Base Fares
Frontier Airlines’ primary attraction is its exceptionally low base fares, which can be a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers. These rock-bottom prices often undercut competitors by a significant margin, making air travel accessible to a broader range of consumers. For savvy travelers who can navigate the airline’s fee structure, these low fares present an opportunity to fly at a fraction of the cost of traditional carriers.
- Regularly offers promotional fares as low as $19 one-way
- Competitive pricing on many routes, especially in the western United States
- Potential for substantial savings on short to medium-haul flights
Newer, Fuel-Efficient Fleet
Frontier operates one of the youngest fleets in the United States, primarily consisting of Airbus A320 family aircraft. This modern fleet brings several advantages:
- Enhanced fuel efficiency, contributing to lower operational costs and potentially lower fares
- Improved reliability and reduced likelihood of mechanical delays
- Lower environmental impact due to reduced emissions per passenger
The airline’s commitment to fleet modernization not only benefits passengers through potentially lower fares but also aligns with growing consumer interest in more sustainable travel options.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Frontier Airlines markets itself as “America’s Greenest Airline,” a claim supported by its operational practices and fleet choices. The airline’s eco-friendly initiatives include:
- Utilization of lightweight seats to reduce fuel consumption
- Implementation of fuel-saving technologies and procedures
- Commitment to reducing single-use plastics onboard
These efforts appeal to environmentally conscious travelers and may influence the choices of those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while flying.
Flexible Fare Options
While Frontier is known for its basic fares, the airline also offers more flexible options for travelers who desire additional perks:
- WORKS bundle: Includes a carry-on bag, checked bag, seat selection, and priority boarding
- PERKS bundle: Offers a more economical option with some of the WORKS features
- These bundles can provide value for passengers who would otherwise pay for these services individually
Potential for Significant Savings
For travelers who can adapt to Frontier’s business model, the potential for savings is substantial:
- Families and groups can benefit from lower overall costs, especially on shorter trips
- Budget-conscious business travelers can reduce travel expenses significantly
- Students and young adults with flexible schedules can take advantage of off-peak pricing
By carefully planning and adhering to Frontier’s baggage policies, passengers can realize savings that make air travel more accessible and frequent.
Stretch Seating Available for Purchase
While Frontier’s standard seats are known for their limited legroom, the airline offers “Stretch Seating” options:
- Up to 7 inches of additional legroom
- Priority boarding included
- Located at the front of the plane and in exit rows
This option allows passengers to upgrade their experience without paying for a full-service airline ticket, striking a balance between comfort and cost.
Frequent Sales and Promotions
Frontier regularly runs sales and promotions that can offer even deeper discounts:
- Flash sales with extremely low fares on select routes
- Seasonal promotions targeting popular vacation destinations
- Discount codes for FRONTIER Miles members
Savvy consumers who remain flexible with their travel dates and destinations can capitalize on these offers to maximize their savings.
FRONTIER Miles Loyalty Program
The airline’s frequent flyer program, FRONTIER Miles, offers several benefits:
- Miles earned based on distance flown rather than fare paid
- Family pooling option allows families to combine miles
- Elite status tiers with increasing benefits, including free carry-on bags and seat assignments
While not as comprehensive as legacy carrier programs, FRONTIER Miles can provide value for regular Frontier flyers.
Disadvantages of Flying Frontier Airlines
Additional Fees for Baggage and Seat Selection
Frontier’s low base fares come with a significant caveat: almost everything beyond the seat itself incurs an additional fee. This fee structure can quickly erode the initial savings for unprepared travelers:
- Carry-on bags often cost more than checked bags
- Seat selection fees, even for standard seats
- Higher fees at the airport versus booking in advance online
These fees can be particularly burdensome for families or travelers requiring multiple bags, potentially making Frontier more expensive than full-service airlines in some cases.
Limited Route Network and Flight Frequencies
Frontier’s route network, while expanding, remains limited compared to major carriers:
- Fewer daily flights on most routes
- Limited or no service to many smaller markets
- Seasonal routes that may not operate year-round
This limitation can be problematic for business travelers or those needing more flexible scheduling options. Additionally, in the event of cancellations or delays, fewer alternative flights are available, potentially leading to significant travel disruptions.
No Complimentary In-Flight Amenities
Frontier’s no-frills approach extends to the in-flight experience:
- No free snacks or beverages (including water)
- All food and drinks must be purchased onboard
- No pillows or blankets provided
Passengers accustomed to the amenities offered by full-service carriers may find this lack of complimentary services disappointing, especially on longer flights.
Tight Seating and Limited Legroom
Frontier’s standard seats are designed for maximum efficiency, which translates to a more cramped experience for passengers:
- Reduced seat pitch (the distance between seats)
- Slim, non-reclining seats with minimal padding
- Limited space for personal items under the seat
These factors can make for an uncomfortable journey, particularly on longer flights or for taller passengers.
Inconsistent Customer Service Experiences
Customer service quality can vary widely with Frontier, leading to frustration for some passengers:
- Limited customer service options, with fees for phone support
- Reports of unhelpful or poorly trained staff at some locations
- Difficulties in resolving issues, especially during irregular operations
The inconsistency in customer service can be particularly problematic when dealing with flight disruptions or complex itinerary changes.
Higher Likelihood of Delays and Cancellations
Frontier has faced criticism for its on-time performance and reliability:
- Higher than average rates of delays and cancellations
- Limited ability to rebook passengers on other airlines
- Potential for significant travel disruptions due to the airline’s limited flight frequencies
These factors can make Frontier a riskier choice for time-sensitive travel or trips with tight connections.
Limited Options for Rebooking on Cancelled Flights
When flights are cancelled, Frontier’s limited schedule can lead to significant inconveniences:
- Fewer alternative flights available for rebooking
- Potential for multi-day delays in reaching the final destination
- Limited partnerships with other airlines for rebooking options
Passengers may find themselves stranded or forced to book last-minute tickets on other carriers at premium prices.
No Wi-Fi or In-Flight Entertainment
Frontier does not offer Wi-Fi or built-in entertainment systems on its flights:
- No option to stay connected or work during the flight
- No seatback screens or streaming entertainment
- Passengers must bring their own devices and entertainment
While this aligns with the airline’s low-cost model, it can be a significant drawback for passengers accustomed to staying connected or entertained during their flights.
In conclusion, Frontier Airlines presents a mixed bag of pros and cons that cater to a specific type of traveler. For those willing to forgo amenities and comfort in exchange for rock-bottom prices, Frontier can offer exceptional value. However, the airline’s fee structure, limited network, and potential for service issues mean that passengers should carefully consider their needs and expectations before booking. Understanding these advantages and disadvantages is crucial for making an informed decision and potentially leveraging Frontier’s low fares to maximize travel budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frontier Airlines Pros And Cons
- Is Frontier Airlines really cheaper than other airlines?
Frontier can be significantly cheaper if you only need the base fare and can avoid additional fees. However, once you add baggage and seat selection, the total cost may be comparable to or exceed other airlines’ fares. - How reliable are Frontier Airlines flights?
Frontier has faced criticism for higher-than-average rates of delays and cancellations. Their limited flight frequencies can also make rebooking challenging in case of disruptions. - What’s included in Frontier’s base fare?
The base fare includes transportation and a personal item that fits under the seat. All other services, including carry-on bags, checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments, incur additional fees. - Are Frontier’s seats comfortable for long flights?
Frontier’s standard seats are designed for efficiency rather than comfort, with limited legroom and no recline. For longer flights, purchasing Stretch Seating or considering other airlines might be more comfortable. - How does Frontier’s loyalty program compare to other airlines?
FRONTIER Miles offers some unique features like family pooling, but it’s generally less comprehensive than legacy carrier programs. It can still provide value for frequent Frontier flyers. - Is Frontier a good choice for families traveling with children?
Frontier can be economical for families, but additional fees for baggage and seat selection can add up quickly. The lack of in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks may also be challenging for younger travelers. - How does Frontier’s environmental impact compare to other airlines?
Frontier claims to be America’s greenest airline, with a modern, fuel-efficient fleet and various eco-friendly initiatives. This can be appealing for environmentally conscious travelers. - What should I consider before booking a Frontier flight?
Consider the total cost including all fees, your tolerance for basic amenities, the importance of on-time performance, and your flexibility in case of schedule changes or cancellations.