Two of the largest budget airlines in the United States, Frontier and Spirit, have significantly reduced their change and cancellation fees, making it easier for travelers to modify their flights.
Frontier Airlines announced on Friday the introduction of four new fare classes: basic, economy, premium, and business. Each fare level offers different amenities, such as seat selection and baggage allowances, while the three higher tiers now come with the key benefit of no change and cancellation fees. Passengers must still pay any fare differences when changing flights, and cancellations beyond 24 hours after booking will result in a future travel credit with Frontier.
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for Frontier — one with transparency in our prices, no change fees, and the lowest total price,” said Frontier CEO Barry Biffle. “This is ‘The New Frontier,’ where we offer not only the lowest fares but also the best price for all the options you want and the customer support you need.”
Spirit Airlines swiftly followed suit, updating its website late Friday to reflect the new change and cancellation policies. Travelers with Spirit can now modify their flights without incurring fees, although they will need to pay any fare differences. Previously, Spirit charged up to $119 for changes, often exceeding the cost of the airfare itself.
“Spirit has been evaluating changes to our product and strategy to better compete, elevate the guest experience, and return to profitability,” Spirit said in a statement. “We are excited to roll out a no change and no cancel fee policy for all guests effective May 17. This new policy is among the best in the industry because it applies to every guest. We have many other enhancements in the works and look forward to sharing more soon.”
These changes come as the Department of Transportation (DOT) ruled in April that U.S. airlines must disclose additional fees, including those for checked bags and flight changes. In response, major airlines such as American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Hawaiian, and Alaska, along with the lobbying group Airlines for America, filed a lawsuit last week to overturn the ruling.