But Frontier is entering some new airspace in 2025, offering what it's calling "First Class Seating and the Most Rewarding Loyalty Program Ever," according to a December 3 announcement. For an airline that's built its recent iterations on the line "Low Fares Done Right," that's a pretty big departure.
“Travelers should expect more from their airline and, in 2025, Frontier will deliver,” said Frontier CEO Barry Biffle. “We've listened to customers, and they want more — more premium options, like first class seating, attainable seat upgrades, more free travel for their companions, and the ability to use miles on more than just airfare. These changes represent an exciting new chapter in our transformation into The New Frontier.”
Well, sure, Mr. Biffle: We all want those things. But when we do, we don't fly Frontier. At least not yet.
What could Frontier Airlines include in its outreach to the rich and spendy among us?
New ideas for the New Frontier
Seats With PaddingUnlike Frontier's current seats, which were all retrofitted from decommissioned Soviet buses from the 1980s, the new seats at the premium price point will include a modicum of actual padding. Instead of a hard plastic covered in a slightly less hard plastic "fabric," these new upgraded seats will contain foam and will be covered in a nylon blend of actual (though still synthetic) cloth for greater comfort. Headrests will be enlarged, too, to account for the ballooning head sizes of wealthier customers.
Separate Air Systems
You know: separate but equal. Why people paying a premium for a seat on Frontier Airlines would lower themselves to breathing the same recycled air as the rabble in the coach section is unfathomable. And who could complain? It's the same system, only Frontier is making sure that the monied don't have to breathe in the same stuff that was just in the lungs of one of the poors in the back.
Cell Phone Use Anytime
The idea that a cell phone can somehow mess with landing a plane has been an inside joke within the airline industry for years now, and the cat was almost out of the bag anyway. So why not loose that feline and make some quick cash at the same time? Yes, first-class Frontier passengers: Use your phones and laptops whenever. The FAA doesn't care. The airlines never have. Frankly, they're surprised so many accepted it as reasonable in the first place.
Wi-Fi That Works
Frontier famously has never had available wi-fi on its flights — but in this day and age, digital connectivity isn't just a way to watch random newscasts out of New York City and reruns of Friends, especially if you're paying through the nose for that "upgraded" experience on Frontier. So sure, it'll give you the password if you're paying enough; after all, Frontier has always had wi-fi. Just not for the bargain-hunting skinflints it used to serve.
Legroom!
The old Frontier was mainly good for those who didn't have legs. But the New Frontier is all about legs that go all the way to the floor. Stretch out and luxuriate in a space that's moderately ample! It'll feel like you've had a day at the spa.
Bitcoin Payments
Hey, Mr. Biffle's New Frontier is hardly unaware that most of the customers it'll be serving with this new program are going to be tech bros and Elon Muskian disciples, which means Bitcoin. So yes, digital currency is now the coin of the realm. It's all part of Frontier's new strategy: Be crypto-fabulous!
Companion Travel for Vassals
Yes, this new positioning for Frontier is meant to foster positive relationships with America's new oligarch class, and that comes with some realities. One of those is that no real ruling class travels without a small entourage. So first-class tickets will also come with a "subordinate pass" in coach, or up to three "serf berths" down in the baggage hold. (All those in baggage hold — pets and servants alike — must be sedated for their own safety.)
Full Cans of Soda
No more cheaping out with little sips of whatever in small plastic cups full of dubiously cloudy ice. For just a small upcharge, Frontier will bring you a chilled soda of your choice, fresh in the can. Bonus: First-class passengers can also reserve any amount of any soda for any reason, essentially denying that product to any of the lesser passengers. Just for fun, you know? It's the true mark of success in America — when you can deny someone else something you enjoy.
Restricted Flights
Sometimes, Frontier's higher-paying customers might want a more customized experience — so if they can afford it, they soon can specifically exclude anyone from the flight up to initial boarding. Don't want babies or kids on the flight? They're gone. No candy-ass libs? Done deal; there's a reason Frontier ponied up for those voting records. Ah, there's nothing like flying in the comfort of one's own ideological bubble.
...And We're Bringing Back the Cookie
At one time, Frontier was known for its chocolate chip cookies on every flight. Now it's bringing back that tradition of care and comfort and service excellence. You know, for the right price.
