If you’ve flown budget airlines in the U.S., chances are you’ve either flown Frontier or considered it. As someone who has flown with Frontier Airlines dozens of times across various routes, ranging from quick hops to multi-leg itineraries, I’ve come to know exactly what to expect. This airline doesn’t pretend to offer luxury, but it does offer aggressively low prices, and that alone is a reason many travelers consider it.
In this in-depth review, I’ll break down what Frontier does well, where it falls short, and how to make the most of the ultra-low-cost model if you choose to fly with them.
What is Frontier Airlines Known For?
Frontier Airlines is known for operating as an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC), focusing primarily on domestic routes within the United States, and select international destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. The carrier is headquartered in Denver and is part of the Indigo Partners portfolio, which includes other budget carriers like Wizz Air and Volaris.
The airline’s operational model is straightforward: unbundle everything. You pay for the seat, and everything else, from carry-ons to seat selection to in-flight snacks, is an add-on. This strategy allows them to advertise fares as low as $19 on certain routes, although such prices often come with very strict conditions and limited availability.
Frontier’s fleet consists entirely of Airbus A320 family aircraft, one of the youngest fleets in North America with an average age of under 5 years. The newer planes help reduce fuel consumption, which contributes to their low operating costs.
How Does Frontier Airlines Price Its Flights?
Frontier’s fare structure is deceptively simple: low base fare, high fee structure. When you first search for a flight, you’ll see very attractive prices, often the lowest in the market. But those fares only cover your seat and a personal item. Everything else incurs a fee.
Pricing is dynamically managed. Routes with high competition, such as Denver to Las Vegas or Atlanta to Orlando, often show base fares from $19 to $49. Less competitive or long-haul routes can start around $89–$129. Frontier also frequently runs flash sales and promotional events for members of its Discount Den program.
Price Structure Breakdown
- Standard Fare: Personal item only, average cost $19–$79, change fees apply.
- Discount Den: Annual membership ($59) gives access to lower fares and “Kids Fly Free” deals.
- Bundled Options: Includes bags, seat selection, and priority boarding; costs $49–$99 extra.
Note: “Kids Fly Free” is only available on select dates and routes, and only when traveling with a Discount Den member.
In essence, Frontier monetizes what full-service airlines include. If you’re planning to travel light, the savings can be significant. But if you need flexibility or luggage, the total cost can rival that of legacy carriers.
Is Frontier Airlines Safe and Reliable?
Yes, Frontier is a safe airline. It is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and operates under the same rigorous safety protocols as any other U.S.-based airline. In terms of equipment, their fleet of Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft are modern and maintained to high standards.
However, reliability is a different story. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2023 Air Travel Consumer Report:
- On-Time Performance: 71.2% (national average: 76.5%)
- Flight Cancellation Rate: 2.7%
- Mishandled Baggage Rate: 6.3 per 1,000 passengers
From my experience, early morning flights tend to have better punctuality. Delays accumulate during the day due to tight turnaround schedules, and Frontier doesn’t have the deep operational redundancy that legacy carriers offer.
What Are Frontier’s Baggage Fees and Policies?
Baggage fees are one of the most criticized aspects of flying Frontier, but also one of the most misunderstood. The airline is transparent about these costs during booking, though many travelers miss the fine print.
- Personal Item (free): Max size 14″x18″x8″, must fit under the seat.
- Carry-On Bag: Starts at $39 if paid during booking, up to $65 at the airport.
- Checked Bag: Starts at $34 for the first bag; prices increase at check-in and at the gate.
- Overweight Fees: $75 for bags over 50 lbs.
- Oversized Fees: $75 for bags exceeding 62 linear inches.
I always recommend paying for baggage during the initial booking. The price increases at each stage, during check-in or at the airport counter. And yes, Frontier does enforce size limits strictly. I’ve seen gate agents measure bags and charge passengers $100 on the spot for oversized items.
What Are the Seat Options and Comfort Levels?
Let me be blunt, comfort is not Frontier’s strength. Most of their aircraft are outfitted with lightweight, slimline seats that do not recline. The standard pitch (legroom) is 28 inches, which is tight for anyone over 5’10”.
They do offer “Stretch Seating” in the first few rows and exit rows. These seats provide:
- 36 inches of pitch
- Recline capability
- Early boarding
Prices for these seats vary by route and demand but typically range from $20 to $60 each way. I personally find the upgrade worth it for flights over 2 hours.
There’s no inflight entertainment, no power outlets, and no Wi-Fi. Bring your own device, and your own charger.
How Does the Check-In and Boarding Work?
Check-in opens 24 hours before departure and should be done online to avoid fees. If you check in at the airport with an agent, you may be charged $25 per person.
Boarding is done in groups, and unless you’ve paid for a seat upgrade or bought “The Works” bundle, you’ll likely board in the last group. Frontier has a reputation for gate chaos, especially on oversold flights. Being early at the gate can sometimes get you better treatment from the staff.
What is the Frontier Airlines Customer Experience Like?
Customer reviews vary widely, but trends are consistent. The most common complaints are:
- Hidden fees
- Poor communication during delays
- Difficult refund and change processes
Frontier has a 1.4/5 rating on Trustpilot (based on 7,000+ reviews) and a high volume of complaints filed with the U.S. DOT. Still, I’ve had smooth experiences, particularly on short-haul, direct flights with early departures. The key is managing expectations and preparing in advance.
What Is the Frontier Miles Loyalty Program?
Frontier’s loyalty program, Frontier Miles, is relatively basic compared to traditional airline programs.
- Earning: 1 mile per mile flown.
- Expiration: Miles expire after 180 days of inactivity.
- Redemption: Starts at 10,000 miles for one-way flights (limited availability and blackout dates apply).
Elite status begins at 10,000 status qualifying miles annually and offers perks like seat selection, free carry-on, and priority boarding. But unless you fly Frontier often, the program’s value is limited.
Who Should Consider Flying Frontier Airlines?
Frontier isn’t for everyone. Based on my experience, it works best for:
- Solo travelers or couples with minimal luggage
- Vacationers on fixed travel dates
- Anyone willing to trade comfort for price
Avoid Frontier if you:
- Need flexibility with changes or cancellations
- Travel with multiple checked bags or sporting equipment
- Expect premium service, food, or inflight entertainment
How Does Frontier Compare to Other Budget Airlines?
Here’s how Frontier stacks up against its main competitors:
| Feature | Frontier | Spirit | Southwest | Allegiant |
| Base Fare | Lowest | Comparable | Higher | Variable |
| Bags Included | No | No | 2 Checked | No |
| Seat Comfort | Below Average | Below Average | Moderate | Below Average |
| On-Time Rate (2023) | 71% | 72% | 80% | 74% |
| Free Cancellation | No | No | Yes (credit) | No |
Southwest is ideal for flexibility and baggage policies. Spirit and Allegiant offer similar pricing models but may vary by route and airport availability.
How to Save the Most Money When Flying Frontier?
Maximizing value from Frontier is possible if you plan with precision. Here are my proven tips:
- Book during fare sales: Frontier frequently offers 75% off base fare promotions.
- Join Discount Den: $59 per year pays off quickly if you fly more than once.
- Travel light: Stick to a personal item to avoid bag fees.
- Avoid airport purchases: Snacks, bags, seat selection, everything costs more at the airport.
- Fly early: Morning flights are more likely to be on time.
These strategies routinely bring my total cost under $60 roundtrip on short-haul flights.
Frontier Airlines Review Summary
Frontier Airlines delivers on its promise: low-cost air travel stripped down to the basics. If you go in with clear expectations and avoid add-ons, it’s a powerful tool for budget-conscious flyers. But it’s not built for convenience or comfort. You must manage logistics yourself and tolerate delays, sparse customer service, and limited amenities.
I continue to fly Frontier for specific use cases, short, direct routes with minimal luggage, where their price advantage is unbeatable. But I never rely on them when time, flexibility, or comfort matters most.