8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Carry-On Bag Fees
Frontier Airlines' strict baggage policies can catch unwary passengers off guard, with substantial fees for carry-on bags.
Depending on when the fee is paid, the cost can range from $53 to $74, with an additional charge for any bags larger than the airline's size restrictions.
Checked bags also incur significant fees, up to $100 per bag for heavier items.
Travelers must carefully navigate Frontier's fees to avoid unexpected costs when booking their flights.
Frontier Airlines' carry-on bag fees can increase by up to 40% if not paid during the booking process, showcasing the importance of planning ahead for budget-conscious travelers.
The carry-on size limit of 22 x 18 x 10 inches is smaller than the industry standard of 24 x 16 x 10 inches, potentially causing issues for passengers with larger bags.
Frontier's personal item size restriction of 18 x 14 x 8 inches is one of the tightest among major US airlines, leaving less flexibility for travelers.
Frontier's checked bag fees can double in price if bags exceed the 41-pound weight limit, incentivizing passengers to pack lighter.
Frontier's policy of charging an additional fee for carry-on bags brought to the gate that exceed the booked allowance is unique among budget airlines, highlighting the need for strict adherence to their baggage rules.
Frontier's refusal to accept bags over 100 pounds is an outlier in the industry, potentially causing logistical challenges for some passengers.
What else is in this post?
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Carry-On Bag Fees
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Checked Baggage Charges
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Seat Selection Costs
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - In-Flight Refreshment Expenses
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Change/Cancellation Fees
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Priority Boarding Surcharges
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Overweight Baggage Penalties
- 8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Annual Subscription Costs
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Checked Baggage Charges
Frontier Airlines has made significant changes to its checked baggage policies, reducing the weight limit from 50 to 40 pounds and introducing substantial fees for bags that exceed this limit.
Passengers must now be mindful of their bag weights, as bags weighing 41-50 pounds will incur a $75 fee, while those between 51-100 pounds will cost an additional $100 per bag.
Frontier's bundled packages, such as "The WORKS" and "The PERKS," may offer a more cost-effective option for travelers who require both a carry-on and a checked bag.
However, it is crucial for passengers to plan ahead and familiarize themselves with Frontier's baggage fees to avoid unexpected costs during their travels.
In 2022, Frontier Airlines reduced the weight limit for checked bags from 50 to 40 pounds, with bags weighing between 41 and 50 pounds incurring a fee of $75 and those between 51 and 100 pounds costing $100 each way.
Frontier's bundled packages, "The WORKS" and "The PERKS," include both a carry-on piece and a checked bag per passenger, potentially saving money compared to booking bags separately.
Frontier's checked baggage fees can vary significantly depending on when the fee is paid, ranging from $53 to $62 during booking on the app, and $69 to $74 before check-in on the app.
Frontier charges approximately $50 to $55 per checked bag during the booking process, but these fees can increase by as much as 40% if not paid upfront.
Frontier has a strict policy of not accepting bags heavier than 100 pounds, an outlier among major US airlines and a potential logistical challenge for some passengers.
Frontier's personal item size allowance of 14"H x 18"W x 8"D, including handles, wheels, and straps, is one of the tightest restrictions in the industry, leaving less flexibility for travelers.
Frontier's unique policy of charging an additional fee for carry-on bags brought to the gate that exceed the booked allowance highlights the importance of strictly adhering to their baggage rules to avoid unexpected costs.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Seat Selection Costs
Frontier Airlines charges additional fees for seat selection, with the cost ranging from $15 to $25 or more depending on the seat location and when the selection is made.
Passengers have the option to choose standard seats with a 28-31 inch pitch or stretch seats with 5-7 more inches of legroom, but both come at an extra price.
Elite status members and children under 13 traveling with an adult can avoid these seat selection fees, while the airline's Discount Den program offers exclusive access to the lowest fares and other perks for an annual fee.
Frontier Airlines' seat selection fees can range from $15 to upwards of $50, depending on the type of seat and when the selection is made.
The airline offers standard seats with a pitch of 28-31 inches, as well as "stretch" seats that provide an additional 5-7 inches of legroom, which come at a premium price.
Frontier's Discount Den program, which costs $99 per year, provides members with exclusive access to the lowest available fares and other perks, including free seat assignments.
Elite status members on Frontier can receive free seat assignments, while children under 13 can sit with an accompanying adult at no additional cost.
Frontier's seat selection fees are not always disclosed upfront during the booking process, leading to unexpected expenses for passengers who may not be aware of the additional charges.
The cost to select a seat can vary depending on the location and timing of the purchase, with fees being higher for seats booked closer to the travel date.
Frontier's policy of charging an additional fee for carry-on bags brought to the gate that exceed the booked allowance is unique among budget airlines, highlighting the importance of adhering to their baggage rules.
Frontier's refusal to accept bags over 100 pounds is an outlier in the industry, potentially causing logistical challenges for some passengers with heavier belongings.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - In-Flight Refreshment Expenses
Frontier Airlines, known for its competitive base fares, also charges additional fees for in-flight refreshments.
Passengers must pay for any snacks, beverages, or alcoholic drinks they wish to consume during the flight.
This policy reflects the airline's strategy of offering low base fares while generating revenue through ancillary charges.
Travelers should factor in the cost of in-flight refreshments when booking their Frontier Airlines flights to avoid unexpected expenses.
Frontier Airlines does not offer complimentary meals or snacks on flights, and only provides refreshments such as snacks, beverages, and alcoholic drinks for purchase.
The cost of in-flight refreshments on Frontier Airlines can vary significantly, with a cup of coffee ranging from $3 to $5, and a beer or wine costing around $8 to $
Frontier's in-flight refreshment menu includes a variety of options, including soft drinks, juices, bottled water, as well as a selection of snacks and light meals, but there are no free options available.
Unlike some other airlines, Frontier does not offer free or discounted refreshments for passengers with elite status or those booking through specific programs, such as the Discount Den.
Frontier's in-flight refreshment prices are generally higher than those found at airport concessions, with a 20-30% premium for the convenience of purchasing on the plane.
Passengers on Frontier flights have reported inconsistencies in the availability and quality of in-flight refreshments, with some experiencing limited options or items being sold out.
Frontier's policy of not providing complimentary water on flights has drawn criticism from some passengers, who view it as a cost-cutting measure that can be inconvenient, especially on longer journeys.
While Frontier's base fares are typically lower than those of legacy carriers, the cumulative cost of in-flight refreshments and other ancillary fees can significantly erode the initial savings for some travelers.
Frontier's in-flight refreshment pricing and policies are part of a broader trend among ultra-low-cost carriers to unbundle services and charge separately for amenities that were once included in the base fare.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Change/Cancellation Fees
Frontier Airlines' change and cancellation policies can be quite punitive for passengers, with fees ranging from $49 to $139 depending on the timing of the request.
The airline has, however, made some improvements by eliminating change fees for bookings made 60 or more days before departure.
This is a positive step, but the fees remain steep for last-minute changes or cancellations.
Passengers should carefully review Frontier's policies before booking, as the airline's approach appears more restrictive compared to more customer-friendly carriers like Southwest Airlines.
The recent government regulation requiring airlines to clearly disclose their change and cancellation fees upfront is a welcome development, as it will help travelers make informed decisions.
Frontier Airlines charges a change fee of $99 per passenger for changes made 59 days or more before departure, which increases to $119 per passenger for changes made 14-58 days before departure.
For changes made 13 days or less before departure, the fee increases to $139 per passenger, on top of any fare difference.
Frontier Airlines may also charge a cancellation fee, which is $49 per passenger for Classic Plus tickets and $29 per passenger for Economy tickets.
Previously, Frontier Airlines allowed free changes or cancellations up to 60 days before the trip, but this policy has been revised to only 0 days before departure.
If a passenger fails to check-in or board within the required time, Frontier Airlines will cancel the ticket and deem it a "No-Show," forfeiting any potential refund.
When canceling a Frontier flight booked with miles, the same cancellation policy applies as for a paid reservation, and a $69-$119 fee will be charged to redeposit the miles.
Frontier Airlines has temporarily waived change fees until 60 days before departure, a policy change from their previous more restrictive policies.
Compared to other US airlines, Frontier's change and cancellation fees are on the higher end, with some carriers like Southwest offering more customer-friendly policies.
A recent rule by the Biden-Harris Administration requires airlines to clearly explain critical extra service policies, including change and cancellation fees, before ticket purchase.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Priority Boarding Surcharges
Priority boarding on Frontier Airlines can be purchased as Zone 2, which allows passengers to board the plane among the first group.
This service comes with a fee ranging from $6 to $12 per person, per direction.
Additionally, elite members and certain credit card holders can also enjoy priority boarding privileges at no extra cost.
Frontier Airlines offers various options for passengers to secure priority boarding, including bundled packages like "The WORKS" and "The PERKS," which include this perk.
However, the fees for stand-alone priority boarding can add up, so travelers should factor in these costs when booking their flights on the low-cost carrier.
Frontier Airlines offers priority boarding as a paid upgrade, known as "Zone 2", which allows passengers to board the aircraft before general boarding.
The cost for priority boarding on Frontier ranges from $6 to $12 per person, per direction, making it one of the more affordable priority boarding options among major US airlines.
Frontier's elite members, passengers who purchase the "Works" or "Perks" bundle, and those who buy a carry-on bag via a "Board First" upgrade are eligible for free priority boarding without an additional surcharge.
Frontier's priority boarding process begins 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, with the goal of final boarding completion 15 minutes before takeoff.
Passengers who do not pay for priority boarding are assigned to the last boarding group, known as "Group 3", which can lead to limited overhead bin space if the flight is full.
Frontier's strict temperature screening policy at boarding, with a 4°F threshold, can result in some passengers being denied boarding and potentially missing out on their priority boarding privileges.
The Frontier Airlines World Mastercard credit card offers priority boarding as a perk for cardholders, providing an alternative way for passengers to access this benefit without paying the à la carte fee.
Frontier's priority boarding fees are significantly lower than the industry average, reflecting the airline's strategy of unbundling services and allowing passengers to customize their travel experience.
Unlike some other airlines, Frontier does not offer any complimentary priority boarding options, such as for families with young children or passengers with special needs, unless they have elite status or a bundled package.
Frontier's priority boarding surcharge can be a valuable option for passengers who need extra time to board, wish to secure overhead bin space, or simply want to avoid the stress of the general boarding process.
Frontier's priority boarding policies are subject to change, and passengers are advised to review the airline's website or mobile app for the most up-to-date information before their trip.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Overweight Baggage Penalties
Frontier Airlines has recently announced changes to its overweight baggage fees, aiming to further unbundle services and generate revenue from passengers' luggage.
The airline now charges $75 for bags weighing between 41 and 50 pounds, and $100 for bags between 51 and 100 pounds.
Additionally, bags over 100 pounds are no longer accepted, except for medical assistive devices.
These new policies reflect Frontier's strategy of keeping base fares low while generating revenue from ancillary charges.
Travelers must be mindful of their bag weights to avoid unexpected costs when flying with Frontier.
Frontier Airlines charges a $75 fee for oversized bags that are between 63 and 110 linear inches, and does not accept bags larger than 110 linear inches, except for medical assistive devices.
Overweight baggage fees apply to bags that weigh more than 40 pounds, with a $50 fee for bags between 41-50 pounds, and a $100 fee for bags between 51-100 pounds.
In 2022, Frontier Airlines announced a reduction in the weight limit for checked bags from the industry standard of 50 pounds to 40 pounds, with the overweight bag fees changing accordingly.
Frontier Airlines restricts the size and weight of bags, with bags over 50 lbs. subject to a $75 overweight baggage fee, and bags over 99 lbs. not allowed.
Bags that are larger than Frontier's size allowance of 63 linear inches are subject to an oversize fee, which can be as high as $
Frontier's overweight baggage fees can double the cost of checking a bag, with a 41-50 lb. bag costing $75 and a 51-100 lb. bag costing $100 each way.
Frontier's policy of not accepting bags heavier than 100 pounds is an outlier in the industry, potentially causing logistical challenges for some passengers.
The airline's personal item size restriction of 18 x 14 x 8 inches is one of the tightest among major US airlines, leaving less flexibility for travelers.
Frontier's bundled packages, such as "The WORKS" and "The PERKS," may offer a more cost-effective option for travelers who require both a carry-on and a checked bag.
Frontier's unique policy of charging an additional fee for carry-on bags brought to the gate that exceed the booked allowance highlights the importance of strictly adhering to their baggage rules.
Frontier's checked baggage fees can vary significantly depending on when the fee is paid, with higher prices for last-minute bookings.
Frontier's refusal to accept bags over 100 pounds is an outlier in the industry, potentially causing logistical challenges for some passengers with heavier belongings.
8 Surprising Extra Fees to Watch Out for When Flying Frontier Airlines - Annual Subscription Costs
Frontier Airlines offers annual subscription plans, such as the "GoWild" pass for $1,999 and a seasonal subscription for $299, which allow customers to fly as much as they want.
However, these subscription plans come with hidden fees and restrictions, including baggage fees, boarding position charges, and blackout periods, that can significantly impact the total cost for travelers.
Passengers should carefully review the terms and conditions of Frontier's subscription plans to understand all potential expenses beyond the advertised subscription rates.
Frontier Airlines offers an "all-you-can-fly" pass called GoWild, which costs $1,999 annually, allowing customers to fly as much as they want, though additional fees may apply.
A seasonal subscription is also available for $299, providing a more affordable option for travelers with specific travel needs.
The GoWild passes come with restrictions on travel dates and blackout periods, potentially hindering itinerary flexibility for subscribers.
Frontier's subscription plans often limit the number of flights that can be booked in advance, which may impact the ability to plan and secure the desired travel dates.
While the subscription plans offer potential cost savings, they are accompanied by hidden fees that can significantly increase the total expenses, such as baggage fees and boarding position charges.
Frontier's Discount Den program, which costs $99 per year, provides members with exclusive access to the lowest available fares and other perks, including free seat assignments.
Frontier's subscription plans do not include complimentary in-flight refreshments, and passengers must pay for any snacks, beverages, or alcoholic drinks they wish to consume during the flight.
The airline's change and cancellation policies for subscription holders can be quite restrictive, with fees ranging from $49 to $139 depending on the timing of the request.
Frontier's priority boarding privileges, which can be purchased as a standalone service or included in bundled packages, come with an additional cost of $6 to $12 per person per direction.
Frontier's overweight baggage fees can double the cost of checking a bag, with a $75 fee for bags weighing 41-50 pounds and a $100 fee for bags between 51-100 pounds.
Frontier's strict policy of not accepting bags heavier than 100 pounds is an industry outlier, potentially causing logistical challenges for some passengers.
Frontier's personal item size restriction of 18 x 14 x 8 inches is one of the tightest among major US airlines, leaving less flexibility for travelers.