Frontier Airlines has announced that it will no longer charge customers a fee to change their flights, following in the footsteps of larger competitors in response to stricter regulations on “junk fees” from the Biden administration. This change is part of a larger overhaul of the budget airline’s pricing model, which typically offers low base fares but charges extra for things like seating assignments and carry-on baggage. Frontier will now be offering bundles that include some of these add-ons, with the option to add on additional services for an extra cost.
The new “economy” bundle includes a carry-on and seat assignment for $30 more than a basic fare, while the “premium” bundle adds earlier boarding for $50 more. The highest tier, the “business” bundle, includes two checked bags and a seat at the front of the plane with extra legroom for at least $100 more than a basic fare. These changes are aimed at increasing transparency and giving customers more options when it comes to customizing their travel experience.
The U.S. Department of Transportation recently issued a rule requiring airlines to disclose all fees, including those for baggage, upfront, which it estimates will save travelers over half a billion dollars a year. Frontier currently charges up to $99 to change flights within a week of the trip, but competitors like Delta, American, and United have eliminated change fees during the pandemic. Southwest Airlines also does not charge for ticket changes, making Frontier’s previous policies less competitive in the industry.
Frontier CEO Barry Biffle acknowledged that change fees were a significant source of customer dissatisfaction, prompting the airline to make these changes to better align with industry standards. While customers who purchase the lowest fare option will still incur fees for flight changes, those opting for the bundled packages will have more flexibility and added conveniences. Frontier is also extending the validity of flight credits from three months to 12 months and reintroducing live phone support for certain travelers.
Overall, Frontier’s decision to eliminate flight change fees and revamp its pricing model reflects a larger trend in the industry towards increased transparency and customer-friendly policies. By offering bundles with more inclusive options and reducing fees for certain services, Frontier aims to enhance the overall travel experience for its customers and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
