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Frontier Airlines will look a lot different next year — literally and figuratively. Sweeping changes (dare we say improvements?) announced today indicate the low-cost carrier plans to look and feel more like a full-service airline. New first-class seats, elite benefits, and mileage redemption options are on the horizon and will debut in 2025.
Here's what Frontier Miles members — and prospective members — need to know about these changes.
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Overview of Frontier Airlines 2025 Program Changes
Frontier's transformation is aptly called “The New Frontier.” And that makes a lot of sense when you look at what's coming. In short, the airline is taking pages from the playbooks belonging to Delta, United, American Airlines, and even Southwest.
First-class seats and complimentary upgrades for elite members
The hallmark of the low-cost carrier experience is an uncomfortable seat. There, I said it. Thankfully, more seating options are coming to Frontier planes; eight recliners (with cushions) will be installed on every aircraft by the end of 2025.
As with Spirit Airlines' Big Front Seats, or any of the so-called legacy carriers, you can purchase these seats outright — but at Frontier's “trademark affordable prices.”
But perhaps there's a better way to score a more comfortable ride.
Frontier will start offering unlimited complimentary space-available upgrades in 2025. Those with Gold, Platinum, and Diamond Elite Status will be added to the upgrade waitlist starting early next year. This means potentially getting a bump to UpFront Plus (blocked middle seat) — or first class once these better seats are installed.
Use Frontier Miles for more than just award flights
Another way to score a better seat on Frontier Airlines flights will be made possible with Frontier Miles. Starting mid-2025, you can redeem Frontier Miles for bags, add-ons, seat bundles, and more — including seat upgrades.
If you don't have Frontier elite status or want to pay for a more “premium” experience out-of-pocket, you can put your miles to good use. The devil is always in the details, but Frontier hasn't yet shared how many miles will be required for these redemptions.
Platinum or Diamond Elite? Travel with a companion for (nearly) free
By now, you've likely heard of Southwest Airlines' Companion Pass. This unlimited companion ticket won't stand alone for long; Frontier Airlines is adopting something similar. You'll earn Frontier's version of a buy-one-get-one pass once you level up to Platinum or Diamond Elite.
In mid-2025, Frontier will begin permitting top-tier elites to bring a companion aboard any flight with a seat available. All you'll pay is nominal taxes and fees. Details are still pretty slim, but it's hard to understate how valuable this perk could be.
Final Thoughts
Whew. That was a lot. But it's pretty refreshing to read about rather positive program changes, no? If you're a Frontier Miles member or are considering joining the program because of what's coming, this announcement will likely be well received.
In retrospect, these changes make a lot of sense. Combine the headwinds facing U.S. low-cost carriers, the fact that legacy airlines are selling most of their first-class seats, and the U.S. Department of Transportation's continuous onslaught against junk fees, and you arrive at an all-new Frontier Miles program.
But it's still pretty early to tell just how valuable these changes will be. Many are rolling out in mid-2025, and details are still pretty slim. Will the upgrade list be a mile long? And will the companion pass be as advertised? We're excited to explore The New Frontier.
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