Frontier AirlinesF9

Frontier Airlines is a major American ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1994, the airline operates over 100 destinations across the United States, Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America. Frontier is known for its distinctive aircraft livery featuring wildlife on each tail.

As an ULCC, Frontier's base fares are among the lowest in the industry—but nearly everything beyond a seat and small personal item costs extra. For flexible travelers with minimal baggage, Frontier can deliver genuine value. For those needing bags and seat selection, compare the total cost to legacy carriers before booking.

Frontier is not affiliated with any airline alliance.

Carry-On Allowance

Personal Item (FREE on all fares):

• Dimensions: 14" x 18" x 8" (36 x 46 x 20 cm)
• Must fit under the seat in front of you
• Examples: Small backpack, purse, laptop bag
• Warning: Strictly enforced with sizing frames at the gate

Cabin Bag (PAID - overhead bin):

• Dimensions: 24" x 16" x 10" (61 x 41 x 25 cm) including handles/wheels
• Weight: 35 lbs (16 kg) maximum
• NOT included on any fare—must be purchased

When Purchased	Carry-On Price
At booking	$59+
After booking	$69+
At airport counter	$99+
At gate	$99+

Checked Baggage

Size: 62 linear inches / 158 cm maximum Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg) maximum—lower than most airlines

When Purchased	Checked Bag Price
At booking	$49+
After booking	$59+
At airport	$69+

Pro Tip: Checked bags are often cheaper than carry-ons on Frontier, especially when purchased at booking.

Overweight & Oversized Fees

Overweight:

Weight	Fee
41-50 lbs (19-23 kg)	$75
51-100 lbs (23-45 kg)	$100
Over 100 lbs	Not accepted

Oversized:

Size	Fee
63-110 linear inches	$75
Over 110 linear inches	Not accepted

Elite Status Bag Benefits

Status	Carry-On	Checked Bags
Silver	Paid	Paid
Gold	1 free	Paid
Platinum	1 free	1 free (+ 8 companions)
Diamond	1 free	2 free (+ 8 companions)

Special Items (FREE)

These items travel free and don't count toward baggage allowance:

• Car seats
• Strollers (gate-check available)
• Diaper bags
• Wheelchairs and mobility devices
• CPAP and medical devices

Military: Active duty members receive 2 free checked bags (50 lbs each) with CAC card.

Frontier operates an all-economy fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft (A320neo, A321neo).

Standard Seats:

• Pitch: 28-29" (tightest in industry)
• Width: 16.5-18"
• Recline: None (pre-reclined design)
• Small tray tables

Stretch Seats:

• Pitch: 33-36" (5-7" extra legroom)
• Recline: Yes
• Larger tray tables
• 5-6 rows available including exit rows

Seating Options (Coming 2025-2026):

• UpFront Plus: First two rows with blocked middle seat
• First Class: New 2x2 premium seating launching late 2025

Entertainment:

• No seatback screens
• No WiFi (coming soon)
• No streaming entertainment
• No power outlets or USB ports
• Bring your own entertainment and charge devices beforehand

Food & Beverage:

• Nothing is complimentary
• Snacks for purchase: $3-8
• Drinks for purchase: $2-5
• Pre-ordering not available

Booking:

• Always compare TOTAL cost (base fare + bags + seats) vs. legacy carriers
• Check the bundle deals—sometimes bags + seats bundle saves money
• Book bags at initial purchase for lowest price
• Tuesday sales often feature route-specific deals

Packing:

• Measure your personal item—it will be checked at the gate
• Consider a checked bag instead of carry-on (often cheaper)
• Pack a fully charged phone—no outlets on board
• Bring snacks and entertainment

At the Airport:

• Check in online to avoid $25 airport fee
• Arrive early—boarding is competitive for overhead space
• If you have no carry-on, board with later groups (no bin space needed anyway)

Maximizing Value:

• Frontier works best for: simple trips, no bags, flexible travelers
• Compare total cost before assuming ULCC is cheapest
• Match elite status from other airlines for instant Gold (promotional)
• The Frontier credit card accelerates status earning

Upgrade Strategies:

• Stretch seats can be bought at check-in if available
• UpFront Plus guarantees empty middle seat
• First Class coming late 2025

Avoid These Mistakes:

• Showing up with an oversized "personal item" (gate fee is steep)
• Buying bags at the airport instead of online
• Expecting any amenities—bring everything you need
• Assuming overhead bin access without a carry-on purchase