Budget Airline Frontier Launches First-Class Seating
Travelers flock to Frontier for its affordable rates. While some fliers enjoy the airline’s minimalistic, no-frills approach to air travel, others see it as the airline’s only flaw. Now, Frontier is shaking the budget airline world up with new first-class seating options and the promise of affordable luxury — a cheapskate traveler’s favorite oxymoron.
What Changes Are Being Made?
Frontier Airlines has been a stalwart in affordable air travel for years. While the budget airline is typically seen as bare-bones, it’s breaking budget boundaries with some new changes rooted in affordable luxury.
The most prevalent of such changes is first-class seating. As part of the airline’s “The New Frontier” transformation, luxurious, spacious seats will be available in late 2025, along with some other attractive upgrades — including free seat upgrades and unlimited companion travel — that are still promised at an affordable rate.
What Does First-Class Seating Include?
Frontier’s first-class seating will debut in late 2025, offering spacious seats in the first two rows of the aircraft. While Frontier hasn’t announced any other swanky details beyond that, the rendering shows cushy seats with plenty of room to wiggle around in. We’re waiting to find out if Frontier’s first-class section will go beyond legroom. (WiFi? Better food and drinks? We’re on the edge of our first-class seats here, Frontier.)
Free Seat Upgrades for Elite Members
Starting in early 2025, Frontier’s loyalty program members with Elite Gold status or higher can enjoy complimentary seat upgrades on every flight. These upgrades will include access to the new first-class seating, once available. It’ll also include upgrades to existing premium seats with added legroom and guaranteed empty middle seats.
Unlimited Free Companion Travel for Elite Flyers
For Platinum and Diamond Elite members, the savings keep coming with free unlimited companion travel. Starting mid-2025, members can bring a friend or family member on any Frontier flight without paying extra for their ticket (excluding government-imposed taxes and fees). We love a good buddy system!
Redeem Frontier Miles for Bundled Services
In mid-2025, Frontier is expanding the use of its loyalty program by allowing travelers to redeem their Frontier miles for bundled services. Customers will soon have the flexibility to use miles for baggage, seating upgrades, and other add-ons available in four tailored bundles: Basic, Economy, Premium, and Business.
Why Are These Changes Being Made?
Frontier is responding to growing customer demand for more premium options while maintaining its reputation as a low-cost carrier. Basically, they’re granting travelers’ wishes to “ball on a budget.” CEO Barry Biffle emphasized that customers want “more premium options” and flexibility, which led to the addition of first-class seating and expanded loyalty perks. These changes also align with the airline’s broader strategy to compete in the affordable travel market without sacrificing quality.