Frontier is probably one of the best airlines in the industry, especially in terms of low-fare providers. They were founded in 1994 and are based out of Denver Colorado. They offer 80 destinations in the United States and abroad, mostly in North America, with flights going to the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and other nearby realms close to the United States. Frontier has one of the most generous programs for rewards in the industry. 20,000 economy frequent flier miles gets a client a round-trip ticket anywhere in the United States. Frontier however, does not do sharing of its frequent flyer miles with other airlines, much like the American Airlines Group does. Frontier is currently upgrading its fleet, which is a nice feature. Most airlines have planes in their fleet that are close to fifteen years old. Frontier uses mostly Airbus jets for its main fleet, including the Airbus 319 and 320. The average age of a Frontier jet is about 8-1/2 years, meaning that Frontier wants the best jets possible for its customers. One downside of Frontier's mergers and acquisitions was the closing of the Milwaukee hub. We found that this adversely impacted Frontier employees, as well as reducing some of their flights that were a central component in their business model because of the central location of the Milwaukee hub.

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The Good

Ticket prices
Rewards program
Boarding
Flight statistics

Frontier is a low-fare airline. They stay true to this reputation by offering the lowest prices for flights. They are often one of the lowest or the lowest priced option for their flights. They also offer one of the most generous rewards programs. 20,000 economy frequent flier miles gets a round-trip ticket anywhere in the United States served by Frontier. There are also special deals that are always available and changing on the Frontier website that will help lower their prices even more. Frontier has few destinations though, so while they may the lowest option, they may not be available for the flights a customer needs. Frontier also does not allow their frequent flier miles to be shared with other airlines. This is unfortunate since other airlines such as American Airlines does allow this. Frontier Airlines has certain specified times for boarding their flights: • 45 minutes before departure: bags must be checked in • 30 minutes before departure: passengers must be at the gate, boarding will begin • 15 minutes before departure: final boarding • 10 minutes before departure: doors close They also have a few groups that will always board their plane first. They include: 1. Special Services: anyone needing wheelchair or other boarding assistance and unaccompanied minors 2. Passengers who have purchased a carry-on bag 3. Courtesy boarding: families traveling with children under three and any other passenger requiring additional time or assistance Seats are assigned on Frontier flights which help make the boarding process smoother as passengers know exactly where they are headed when they enter the aircraft. Frontier recommends that passengers choose their seats while they are booking their tickets. This way passengers can choose their preference, and try to keep their party together however it does cost a fee to choose a seat. If a seat is not chosen at booking, one will randomly be assigned during the check-in process for free. Check-in can be done at the airport or online and must be done at least 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights, and 60 minutes for international flights. Frontier has fairly average on-time percentages for their daily flights. The received the following statistics from Flightstats.com: • 80% on-time • 7% late • 3% very late • 7% excessive Many of the top airlines are slightly higher than this rating. The margin that they are better is not much however, Frontier is still rather consistent for being generally on time. Their most active routes, however, did receive much lower ratings than top airlines. Generally the top airlines active routes are receiving four to five-star ratings, while Frontier flights received mostly two to three-star ratings. Their top flights include: • Denver to Portland (4.1 stars, 88% on time) • San Diego to Denver (3.7 stars, 87% on time) • Denver to Minneapolis (3.4 stars, 85% on time) Their lowest flight is Denver to Dallas (1.4 stars, 74% on time). These ratings show that Frontier is not as consistent with providing on time, not delayed or canceled flights as some of the other airlines. Frontier offers more than 275 daily flights and is a much smaller airline than some of the top they are compared to. Their most active routes looked at are all domestic locations. Frontier Airlines began in 1994 and has been providing low-fare air travel for the past 21 years. 21 years of service does not make them a brand new airline. They have had time to grow with the industry, and expand. They are however, a young airline when compared with some of the major airlines. A number of other airlines, both major and small, have been around for over 80 years, about four times as long as Frontier. An advantage to Frontier's young age is their young fleet. Many of their airplanes are newer than other airlines offer. Frontier is also the proud winner of the Federal Aviation Administration's 2014 Diamond Award for maintenance excellence. They were also recently named the industry's most fuel-efficient airline by the International Council on Clean Transportation. Along with these awards, Frontier is one of the safest airlines. They have never had a fatal accident, an impressive feat for a low-fare carrier.

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The Bad

Baggage
Amenities

Because Frontier is a low-cost airline, they do not offer any free baggage. All checked and carry-on bags cost money. Baggage is cheaper when it is booked online at least 24 hours before departure. There is a price increase for bags checked at the ticket counter of the airport and another increase for bags checked at the gate. There are also certain size restrictions for checked luggage. Bags must not exceed 62 inches collectively (Length + Width + Depth) and 50 pounds. Bags that exceed this will have an additional charge of $75 for each bag that is overweight and $75 for each oversized bag, and bags over 100 pounds or in excess of 110 linear inches will not be accepted. Because Frontier is a low-fare airline, they do not offer many of the standard amenities found on much larger airlines. They do not offer any entertainment options or Wi-Fi. They state that they would rather pass those savings onto the customers. They also do not offer any complimentary food or beverages. They do have an array of options for snacks and beverages that are available for purchase on the flight however. Their non-alcoholic drinks cost $2. This is unusual even for low-fare airlines. Generally other low cost airlines provide complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and maybe some light snacks. Frontier however charges for all food onboard. Their snack choices include: • Chex mix • Almond M&M's • Beef Jerky • Pringles Chips • Gummy Bears • Rice Krispies • Frontier Trail Mix Frontier also offers a number of bundled options for different snacks and drinks. They serve coffee as well and their alcoholic beverages will run about $7 a drink.

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The Bottom Line

We would recommend Frontier without reservation and would even go so far as to say that they are one of the best low-fare airlines in the industry. We liked their relatively young fleet, the Airbus planes that make up their fleet, and the customer experience that customers get. We really liked our phone-in experience. Our questions were easily answered and we also really liked the no-hassle refund policy for customers who have a canceled flight. If you're flight is canceled or delayed up to three hours, you will get a refund of your ticket or a new flight.

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User Reviews

Star Rating

2.9

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282 Reviews

Review Breakdown

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18%

4 grade

21%

3 grade

17%

2 grade

13%

1 grade

30%

Sentiment Criteria

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Persephone Tenorio Rocky Ford, CO

I originally started flying with Frontier as it was a low-cost airline with many flights from Denver, my closest airport. I stay flying with Frontier because of their incredible service and pet policy. I have had to fly with two bonded rabbits multiple times and it has never been a hassle. As for their service, I got extremely sick right before take off due to anxiety. Many of the stewards rushed to help and when I insisted we continue, they accommodated me extremely well with free water, snack, and plenty of bags just in case. They checked on me periodically and helped as I struggled to get off the plane after landing. Their service went beyond the airplane as one of the stewards even helped direct me to the nearest elevator so I could get home quicker. It’s extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing being sick on a flight, but Frontier made it their priority to help me as best as they possibly could and I’m extremely grateful. I’ll continue to use Frontier for all my flights to Denver and hope others will do the same.

7 years ago

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Michele Tarantino Mayers Seattle, WA

My husband and I flew from Seattle to Cleveland , back in May.. Im not a very good flyer, but our experience with Frontier airlines was excellent.. Wow...We got our tickets for 49 dollars , each, and had no problems , of any kind, with any thing.. I was a bit nervous when I realized we were on an Airbus plane .. ( ya know, being from Washington State , and the Boeing connection ) but I have to say , it was THEE MOST smoothest flight Ive EVER been on,( and I even fell asleep , so when I woke up , we were arriving in Cleveland.!) which was perfect for my first experience with the time zone change.. I will totally fly with Frontier Airlines again..We have even started looking for deals for our next trip back..Great experience in every aspect.. The low fares allow us freedom to travel, which I never thought id get to do , otherwise..

11 years ago

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Megan New York, NY

I have flown on Frontier a few times, but I have to say my last flight with them about 9 months ago is the one that sticks out the most. I had booked a flight through my Companies travel site. When I went to check in the day before I did not see my reservation online. I called customer service. I had recently had a horrendus experience on another airline where they kept canceling my reservation for my family vacation. When I called Frontiers customer service I told the lady what was happening and when she said everything was fine with my reservation. I told her what had happened a month prior and how that airline had assured us numerous times we we fine with our reservation and in fact we weren't and almost couldn't go on our trip or return home from our trip. The lady I was speaking to at Customer Service apologized profusely for an issue with another airline. That made my day because I got more of an apology from her than the other airline. She made it so I could check in online that day so that I had all the reassurance I needed.

11 years ago

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Eddie Rios Ogden, UT

Frontier Airlines fills a niche in rural flights that the larger airlines just can't handle. Frontier is nimble with prices and values your flight experience. I feel well taken care of when flying with Frontier Airlines. They are efficient at tackling lesser travelled routes and often only Frontier can get me to certain regions. I appreciate their expertise at safely flying commuter routes.

6 years ago

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Kate Omaha, NE

Just returned home on a DEN to OMA flight with my 4 yr old. Crew was kind, welcoming and ready to assist when needed. Flight was delayed due to weather but it was clear that the crew intended to turn the plane as quick as possible in OMA to ensure the next flights passengers made their connections. A+ for the day. See you soon #frontierairlines!

11 years ago

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Sara

I have flown on Frontier upwards of 50 times, both on my own and alone with 4 my 4 small children. I have always been treated incredibly well. The in flight crew is always helpful and courteous. I appreciate that with Frontier I have the flexibility to choose to pay only for the things I want most in my flying experience. If I want to keep my cost low I can choose to pay just the base fair or if I want an in flight soda I can add it. With other airlines they don't give you the option, the cost is already built into the ticket price. I would recommend frontier to all of my friends.

11 years ago

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Tonga Salt Lake City, UT

I have flown on Frontier every time I have traveled to Alaska, Virginia, Wash. D.C. and Ohio. I really have been glad to travel with them since I don't like flying at all. They didn't ever lose my luggage and they were so great with me. I hope they aren't going out of business. I always contact them if I am looking to fly to places where my children live out of State. Tonga

11 years ago

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Judith Larson Converse, TX

I love Frontier! They have always gone above and beyond to accommodate me so many times! Most recently I have had some very serious family health issues and have become disabled myself. The caring, compassionate service I have received is greatly appreciated. Thank you Frontier for all you do for me and I will remain a faithful Frontier Flyer forever. Love you Frontier!!

11 years ago

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Cathy Mitchell Chicago, IL

I love Frontier! I got a round trip from Chicago to Austin for $54!!! Other than a weather related delay, everything was perfect. I get great deals sent to me every week and will be booking another trip as soon as I can with Frontier! There was no difference in accommodations from other airlines except their fabulous prices. I was also able to bring a carry on as personal baggage and paid no baggage fees!

11 years ago

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Lois Gadomski Tallahassee, FL

My mom and I flew Frontier for the first time this past week...We were very happy with our experience with both the flight, seat comfort, and staff was amazing..my mom is 87 and they helped in every way to make sure she and I were comfortable...again thank you...I would travel with them again ...we have already booked our trip for Oct. for Las Vegas again...........

11 years ago

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Brynlee Dalton Riverton, UT

Frontier Airlines is SUCH a good company! There is an amazing feeling every time I get on a Frontier flight! When I went to Texas, I used Frontier Airlines, and I loved it so much! I would definitely recommend Frontier Airlines to a friend.

4 years ago

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Jeanette Itasca, IL

I haven't flown in 12 years. I recently flew Frontier airlines with my sister to Arizona. I was very nervous about the flight but everyone was so great. My seat was comfortable. I had ample room. The flight was very uneventful which is great!

7 years ago

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Jeffrey McBreairty New Milford, CT

I have flown Frontier from Bradley to Denver and Denver to Bradley, none stop and it was wonderful. I am asking you please to make a non stop flight again from Denver Int. Bradley Int. In Connecticut. if you did, I would fly more often It was a worthy adventure for your airlines and I still believe it would be a worthy adventure again.

11 years ago

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Nancy Bayne Eaton, CO

I guess I've just been lucky but I have never had any problems flying Frontier. It is my choice of airlines when I fly. I always choose to fly Frontier and appreciate that they are on time and the crew is always friendly and the service is great.

11 years ago

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RodrigoRamirez Austin, TX

Frontier get's a lot of flack, but honestly, I've never had issues. Yeah the bag fees are a little much, but the flights are extremely cheap and they are always having some type of promotion. I appreciate all the bells and whistles that come with other airlines in terms of in flight entertainment and vibes. That in mind, if you just need to go point a to point b the cheapest way possible without all of the extras, I'd highly recommend frontier!

6 years ago

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Brynlee Dalton South Jordan, UT

I love Frontier Airlines so much! There is such a great feeling every time I get on a Frontier flight. I used Frontier Airlines when I flew to Missouri, and I loved it! I would definitely recommend it to a friend.

4 years ago

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Barb Jones Colorado Springs, CO

I have been flying with Frontier for some time now. I love this airline even though I did have a rather rude ticket/gate agent my last trip out of Phx. I will continue to give them my business.

11 years ago

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Rachel Aurora, CO

I was able to fly so inexpensively on my last round trip that even with the baggage fees it was way under what I would have spent on another airline. I always check Frontier when I fly because they have such great deals.

11 years ago

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fgaus San Antonio, TX

Went on a trip with 2 grandchildren last month. Service was excellent! Lost a boarding pass in the airport before rtn trip, however it was replaced without any problem. Just wish they were in San Antonio!

11 years ago

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Michelle Schow Saratoga Springs, UT

Frontier has some awesome deals on flights. I can find flights from SLC to Las Vegas for $39 each way, which makes it cheaper to fly than drive. You have to be flexible with dates to get the best deals on Frontier as weekends tend to be sometimes double the price as weekdays.

6 years ago

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Kathryn Robinson Riverton, UT

I love the affordable rates Frontier Airlines provides to various cities in the US. For example, I can even find flights from Salt Lake to Las Vegas for under $100 round trip! I love that Frontier Airlines makes air travel so affordable.

6 years ago

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kristin Gneiting Pleasant Grove, UT

Frontier Airlines are perfect for me. They give me a great price, I don't have to pay for a bunch of extras that I don't need and I can travel light and be in to checkin and out at the end easily. They provide the budget traveler the ability to travel and not have to pay the high prices.

7 years ago

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Ashley Pleasant Grove, UT

We became "Den" members this year which means you can fly almost any flight for a cheaper rate than just purchasing your ticket normally. There are some incredible deals going from Salt Lake to Denver. Usually I can find a round trip if I purchase early enough for around $100. That beats driving through the Rocky Mountains in January!

7 years ago

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Natalia Correa MDTribe Miami, FL

I absolutely love flying frontier. They have great deals and I never have any issues when I travel with them. Their customer service agents are super helpful as well!

6 years ago

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Sharon Bristow Thomaston, GA

Frontier helped me to change my ticket due to being displaced by hurricane Irma. They were courteous, caring and prompt. I was very appreciative in a stressful situation.

9 years ago

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Carrie Cedeno Washington, DC

Everything was great! My flight was on time, baggage check and claim was good, snacks free and good... I really enjoyed flying with Frontier Airlines.

11 years ago

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Dwhoush Slidell, LA

I like Frontier. They are a budget friendly airline with a lot of good routes. On my flight, they pilot was very talkative to everyone and the other staff was very friendly. Our flight was on time as well.

6 years ago

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Bennett Robinson Riverton, UT

Frontier has some awesome deals on flights. You can even find flights for as low as $39 one way. This makes it so you can even fly somewhere for a day if needed without spending a lot of money.

6 years ago

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Stephanie Love Herriman, UT

I’ve loved using Frontier. It’s been a very affordable airline and I use it a lot when I need to make a quick trip and I don’t need to pack heavy. So far I haven’t had any issues and will continue using Frontier.

6 years ago

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Reese Pleasant Grove, UT

Frontier Airlines has worked well for me. It is within my budget, but still provides the service and quality that is so good. Flights are on time and convenient for my schedule.

7 years ago

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Kymberlee Yack Orem, UT

the quality of frontier and their flights is impeccable. theres so many options to choose from for times, and they are always having good prices so if i have to have a last minute flight its never too expensive.

7 years ago

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Kristin G Pleasant Grove, UT

Salt Lake City to Denver is a great route on Frontier because of the price and the many flight times that are available.

8 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Scott Dexter Cincinnati, OH

Amazing rates, good flights and excellent service on every flight. If I can find the service to where I want to go I fly Frontier!

8 years ago

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Jenny Aurora, CO

I recently flew on Frontier and had a wonderful experience. Everyone was so nice and helpful. I will definitely use them again!

11 years ago

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Katie Aurora, CO

Low fares and great employees! Just keep in mind the additional fees when buying your ticket and there won't be any surprises.

11 years ago

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Kaitlyn Rios Ogden, UT

Frontier Airlines has to be my favorite smaller airline. It has fantastic deals on airfare, comfortable seating on the jets and super helpful staff. Highly recommended.

6 years ago

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AmyConder22 Eagle Mountain, UT

Frontier was an ok airlines. There wasn’t really anything that I hated other then the fact that they suck you in with cheap rates and then charge for every bag.

6 years ago

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Kate Gregory Pleasant Grove, UT

Frontier has quickly become our favorite airline. They have fantastic deals. There really aren't any frills along with the flight, but they are priced well.

7 years ago

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Kimberly Maddock Pleasant Grove, UT

Frontier is my favorite airline for quick flights. They may not have all the bells and whistles like the other airlines, however you can not beat the price.

8 years ago

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Anna Chevas Wolford New Tazewell, TN

I loved the one and only flight on Frontier, unfortunately they discontinued their service in Knoxville, TN!

11 years ago

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Syl North Port, FL

A month ago I had the first opportunity to travel through Frontier. The service was very good and the employees were friendly

6 years ago

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Patricia Broadus Moselle, MS

My first flight was with Frontier airlines and I was so nervous but all of the staff was so nice! They are very inexpensive and definitely worth it!

6 years ago

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Juliann Mecham Managua, MN

I found surprisingly nice flights through Frontier. Not the cleanest plane, but it got the job done and I arrived safely.

6 years ago

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Chloe Adams Morgan, UT

Online assistance is very prompt, wait time for phone calls is fast, and customer service is kind and quick. Flights are very enjoyable and clean!

7 years ago

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Leslie West Jordan, UT

In my opinion, Frontier is the best value for your buck. Seats are comfy and service is great! Recommended for both business and personal travel!

8 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

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Lynette Thomson Elyria, OH

It a very pleasant trip. From the direct flight into Sarasota to the airplane staff.

6 years ago

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Laurie Massie Lakeland, FL

Super friendly crew, no fuss airlines! Thanks for helping me get to Yuma! Y’all are the best!!

6 years ago

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Shaylee Provo, UT

We use frontier each time we go to Mexico and are very happy with the service we receive.

7 years ago

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Teagan hickman Seattle, WA

Frontier is a great easy cheap airline to fly.. we have always had good luck finding goo prices for our flights

6 years ago

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mgillings

Great cheap, basic no nonsense flights. Not a lot of bells and whistles,but for cheap travel it was a great option!

8 years ago