Imagine spotting a round-trip flight for $29 and hitting “Book.” Exciting, right? Then you realize the carry-on costs more than the seat, you’re stuck in the middle row, and there’s no free snack in sight. Welcome to flying with Frontier Airlines. This review breaks down everything: the booking process, hidden fees, comfort, reliability, and whether you’re really saving money or just trading comfort for cost.
Who is Frontier Airlines?
Frontier is a U.S. ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Denver, Colorado. According to Wikipedia, it operates a fleet of over 160 Airbus A320 family aircraft and serves more than 120 destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean. Its model is simple: low fares, no frills, and lots of optional add-ons.
What You Pay For (and What You Don’t)
The base fare covers your seat and a small personal item. Everything else; seat selection, carry-on bags, checked luggage, even snacks costs extra. It’s great for travelers who pack light but frustrating for those expecting traditional airline perks.
Target Audience & Route Network
Frontier suits travelers who prioritize price over comfort, especially for short flights. Its network focuses heavily on U.S. domestic routes, with a few destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. For long-haul comfort or elite perks, you’ll want another airline.
Booking Experience & Fare Transparency
Frontier’s booking system looks cheap at first, but costs add up fast. Carry-ons, checked bags, and even selecting your seat can double or triple your total. Bag fees vary depending on when you pay as online booking is cheapest, airport payment is priciest.
- Carry-on bag: $59 average
- Checked bag: $55 average
- Seat selection: $25–$40
Tip: Always click “total cost” before checkout to see the real fare. Weigh and measure your bags to avoid surprise charges at the gate.
Onboard Experience & Amenities
Frontier’s onboard experience is minimalist. Seats are slim, legroom is tight, and there’s no in-flight entertainment. You’ll pay for snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi if available. Still, flights are usually clean, and for short hops, the simplicity can be fine.
Multiple reviews mention that staff professionalism varies: some crews are friendly and efficient, others seem indifferent. Bring your own food, entertainment, and patience.
Reliability, Delays & Customer Feedback
Frontier’s reliability scores are mixed. From our own research we found it ranked low in on-time performance. Customers frequently cite delays and last-minute cancellations. Some passengers complained that they cancel flights anytime of day or night and rescheduling is not easy.
If reliability matters say you’re connecting flights or traveling for business then consider building in extra time or choosing a carrier with more schedule protection.
Baggage Policies & Extra Costs
Frontier’s baggage rules are strict. Only one small personal item fits under your seat for free. Anything larger counts as carry-on or checked baggage, both paid options.
- Personal item: up to 14x18x8 inches (free)
- Carry-on: from $59
- Checked bag: from $55 (40 lbs limit)
Pay for bags during booking to save money since airport fees are higher. And measure your bag carefully. Frontier agents are strict about size and weight limits.
Route Network, Destinations & Expansion
Frontier flies to 120+ destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and Central America. Its main hub is Denver International Airport. The airline continues to expand point-to-point routes that keep costs low but limit flexibility if a flight gets canceled.
Safety, Fleet & Industry Standing
Frontier operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320, A320neo, and A321neo aircraft. While it ranks low on customer satisfaction, its safety record is solid with no major incidents in recent years.
It’s worth noting that being “ultra-low-cost” does not mean unsafe; it simply means fewer service layers and smaller budgets for customer support and flexibility.
Value For Money: Is Frontier Airlines Worth It?
Here’s the BRUTAL truth: Frontier is a great deal if you’re smart about it. The airline delivers on price, but comfort and reliability lag behind competitors.
Pros
- Ultra-cheap base fares
- Newer, efficient aircraft
- Wide domestic network
Cons
- Hidden fees for bags, seats, and snacks
- Tight legroom and minimal service
- Lower reliability and limited customer support
Despite its shortcomings, Frontier can still be worthwhile if you keep expectations in check.”
Final Verdict
If you know exactly what you’re getting, Frontier Airlines can save you serious money. But if you expect full-service treatment, you’ll be disappointed.
Fly Frontier if:
- You’re taking a short domestic trip
- You can travel with just a personal item
- You don’t mind minimal amenities
Consider other airlines if:
- You’re checking multiple bags
- You want flexibility and customer support
- You’re traveling with family or connecting flights
Before booking, use the Frontier Airlines Booking Checklist to see if it’s truly the best deal for you.
Infographic: Is Frontier Airlines Really Cheaper?
Frontier can still be cheaper than full-service airlines, but only if you travel light and skip the extras.
Frontier Airlines isn’t bad; it’s just bare-bones. You can get amazing deals if you plan ahead, travel light, and skip the add-ons. For some, it’s a lifesaver. For others, it’s a headache. The key is knowing which kind of traveler you are.
Planning to fly Frontier soon? Drop your route in the comments, and we’ll help you compare it with Spirit, Allegiant, or Southwest.
I’m an aeronautical engineer (B1.1 License), a fan of travel, technology, and entrepreneurship. I’m also interested in writing and programming.