Frontier Airlines planes are parked at gates in Denver International Airport (DEN) in Denver, Colorado, on August 5, 2023.
Daniel Slim | Afp | Getty Images
Even for funds carriers, incomes elite standing is now all about how a lot you spend.
Frontier Airlines on Tuesday joined bigger airways in saying an overhaul of its frequent flyer program to reward travelers relying on how a lot they pay to fly.
Frontier and different low cost airways provide low, no-frills fares and charges for every little thing else from seat assignments to carry-on baggage. Those add-ons will rely towards elite frequent flyer standing on the Denver-based airline beginning subsequent yr.
The provider’s present program provides travelers one frequent flyer mile for every bodily mile they fly on Frontier.
The new mannequin based on spending is analogous to different giant airways’ latest program adjustments like these at Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. Last week, Delta walked back a few of its new elite standing thresholds and limits on airport lounge entry after prospects complained concerning the adjustments.
Frontier stated prospects might be ready to earn earn silver elite standing, a brand new tier, after racking up 10,000 miles, which the provider stated is equal to spending $1,000. The tiers go up to “diamond” stage at 100,000 miles, although there are accelerators to earn extra miles at every stage.
Perks embody fee-free flight adjustments, seat assignments, in-cabin pets and, on the highest stage, a second free checked bag.
Ancillary income is very vital to funds carriers. Frontier stated in the second quarter it is ancillary income rose 6% yr over yr to $80 per passenger, whereas income from airfare fell 15% to practically $48 per passenger.
Frontier is scheduled to report third-quarter outcomes earlier than the market opens on Thursday.