Frontier Airlines Eliminates Change Fees as Biden Administration Targets Junk Fees
ICARO Media Group
Frontier Airlines has announced that it will no longer charge customers to change their flights, a move that aligns with the Biden administration's efforts to crack down on excessive airline fees. The budget airline plans to revamp its pricing model, bundling perks that were previously sold separately.
The decision to eliminate change fees is part of a broader overhaul of Frontier Airlines' pricing strategy, which traditionally attracted customers with low base fares but charged fees for additional services like advance seating assignments and cabin baggage. Going forward, the airline will offer package deals that include these add-ons, along with benefits such as early boarding.
While some customers will still have the option to customize their travel experience by adding services à la carte, Frontier CEO Barry Biffle expects this to be a minority. The airline aims to provide all-inclusive packages to most travelers, simplifying the booking process and reducing the potential for surprise fees.
The move comes in the wake of a recent rule implemented by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), mandating that airlines disclose fees upfront, including those for checked or carry-on baggage. The DOT estimates that this new regulation will save travelers over $500 million annually.
Currently, Frontier Airlines charges up to $99 to change flights within a week of departure, as stated on their website. However, larger competitors such as Delta, American, and United have already done away with change fees during the COVID-19 pandemic for customers booking standard economy class and above. Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, has never imposed change fees.
Frontier CEO Barry Biffle acknowledged that change fees were a significant concern for travelers and a frequent complaint. By eliminating these fees, Frontier aims to enhance its appeal and align its practices with those of larger industry players who have already abandoned such charges.
The removal of change fees by Frontier Airlines reflects a broader shift within the industry toward greater transparency and customer-friendly policies. As the Biden administration continues to crack down on "junk fees," travelers can expect more favorable changes that prioritize transparency and fairness in the airline industry.