Frontier Airlines recently announced a significant change to its pricing model by eliminating the fees associated with changing flights. This decision comes as the Biden administration enforces stricter regulations on airlines regarding “junk fees,” aligning Frontier with larger competitors in the industry. The overhaul of the pricing model, which was unveiled on Friday, is aimed at offering customers a more transparent and streamlined experience when booking and changing flights.
For years, Frontier Airlines has been known for its low base fares that often come with additional fees for services such as in-advance seating assignments and cabin baggage. However, the airline is now moving away from this a la carte approach and will instead offer bundled packages that include these add-ons, along with perks like early boarding. While customers will still have the option to customize their experience with add-ons, Frontier expects that the majority of passengers will opt for the bundled packages.
One of the key benefits of this new pricing model is the elimination of flight change fees, which have long been a source of frustration for travelers. Previously, Frontier charged up to $99 to change flights within a week of the trip, putting it at a disadvantage compared to competitors like Delta, American, and United, which had already eliminated change fees during the Covid-19 pandemic. Southwest Airlines, another major player in the industry, has never charged customers to change their tickets, further emphasizing the need for Frontier to adapt to industry trends.
Frontier CEO Barry Biffle acknowledged that change fees were a top complaint among travelers and that aligning with the practices of larger airlines was crucial for remaining competitive. By removing these fees and offering more inclusive packages, Frontier aims to improve customer satisfaction and attract more passengers. The airline is also responding to regulatory changes, such as the recent rule from the U.S. Department of Transportation requiring airlines to be transparent about fees upfront, which is expected to benefit consumers by saving them money.
Frontier Airlines’ decision to eliminate flight change fees and revamp its pricing model reflects a larger shift in the industry towards transparency and customer-centric practices. By aligning with industry trends and regulatory changes, Frontier is positioning itself for success in a highly competitive market.