Frontier Airlines Shifts its Frequent Flyer Program to Focus on Spending

In a recent move aligning with the industry trend, Frontier Airlines announced on Tuesday that it is revamping its frequent flyer program. Instead of rewarding travelers based on the distance they fly, the new system will reward them based on the amount they spend on the airline.

Frontier’s current loyalty program allocates one frequent flyer mile for each mile traveled on the airline. Starting next year, however, the focus will shift to spending. This approach mimics recent changes implemented by major carriers like Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. Notably, following backlash from customers, Delta recently made adjustments to some of its elite status parameters and restrictions on airport lounge accessibility.

With the new structure in place, Frontier passengers will be able to attain a newly introduced “silver elite status” after accumulating 10,000 miles, equivalent to an expenditure of approximately $1,000. The loyalty program’s tiers progress up to a “diamond” level at 100,000 miles. Moreover, there will be mechanisms in place for customers to expedite mile accumulation at each tier.

Members of the loyalty program can look forward to benefits such as complimentary flight modifications, seat assignments, and bringing pets into the cabin. Those at the pinnacle, the “diamond” level, will also be eligible for a second free checked bag.

Given that budget airlines heavily rely on ancillary revenue, this move is significant for Frontier. The airline reported that its ancillary revenue for Q2 surged by 6% compared to the previous year, averaging $80 per traveler. In contrast, revenue from ticket sales saw a decline of 15%, amounting to almost $48 per passenger.

The airline will disclose its third-quarter financial results before the stock market opens on the upcoming Thursday Oct. 26.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, Frontier, apple.news