Low-Cost Carrier Frontier Will Debut First Class Seats in 2025

Frontier Airlines is breaking the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) mold by implementing some surprising alterations to its business strategy. Starting in 2025, the Denver-based airline will introduce First Class seating options and unlimited free companion travel for top-tier members.

With these changes, the airline is aiming to redefine low-cost flying with its bold new initiative called “The New Frontier,” which aims to improve the passenger experience while preserving its reputation for affordability.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier Airlines

“Travelers should expect more from their airline, and in 2025, Frontier will deliver as we continue our transformation into the most rewarding airline in the sky,” said Barry Biffle, CEO of Frontier. “We’ve listened to customers, and they want more—more premium options, attainable upgrades, and flexibility. These changes represent an exciting new chapter in our journey.”

Here’s a closer look at the developments Frontier has in store:

Low-Cost First Class

Starting in late 2025, Frontier will roll out its First Class seating, marking a departure from its traditional no-frills ULCC model.

This change is unprecedented within the low-cost carrier segment in North America. It also sets Frontier apart from its sister airlines under Indigo Partners—Volaris, Wizz Air, JetSmart, and Lynx Air—all of which continue to follow the high-density seating configuration typical of the ULCC sector.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier Airlines

Although Spirit Airlines offers its Big Front Seat product in the first rows of its Airbus Family fleet, Frontier implies that its First Class seats serve a purpose beyond just providing more space. Also, it remains unclear whether Frontier will offer any inflight amenities, such as free snacks and beverages.

In any case, this shift brings Frontier closer to competing domestically with major U.S. airlines such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and, most importantly, Southwest Airlines, which recently announced significant changes to its business model by introducing premium seating and assigned seating, a strategy the airline hopes will help it regain lost market share against the major legacy carriers.

By introducing a First Class product, Frontier appears to be moving away from the struggling ULCC model, which has led Spirit Airlines to declare bankruptcy and enter Chapter 11.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier

According to the Denver-based airline, the new spacious seats will be located in the first two rows of the aircraft, offering passengers a better experience at competitive prices.

Additionally, Frontier’s Elite Gold members and higher tiers will be eligible for complimentary upgrades to these premium seats, subject to availability.

New Elite Benefits

In addition to their spacious seating options in the front cabin, Frontier Airlines is launching new offerings within their loyalty program, Frontier Miles, to attract budget-conscious business travelers.

Starting in early 2025, Elite Gold members and above will enjoy free seat upgrades, allowing them to travel in better seats, including First Class, without any extra charges.

Moreover, beginning in mid-2025, Platinum and Diamond Elite members will have the opportunity to bring a companion on any flight at no additional cost. This benefit is particularly noteworthy in a market where many companion pass programs come with blackout dates and other restrictions, offering members more flexibility.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier

Frontier also aims to enhance the versatility of the Frontier Miles program. Starting in mid-2025, members will be able to redeem their points for various extras, such as baggage fees, seat upgrades, and travel bundles.

Currently, Frontier’s loyalty tiers already offer competitive features like family pooling, priority boarding, and free checked baggage for items such as golf clubs, skis, or pets.

With these new enhancements, Frontier is clearly focused on gaining industry acceptance and credibility by providing a more rewarding loyalty program. However, it remains uncertain whether these benefits will genuinely appeal to frequent travelers.

Making Elite Status More Accessible

In addition to First Class upgrades and companion certificates, Frontier is lowering the barrier to achieving Elite Status, especially for those who use the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard.

Through April 2025, the airline is allowing frequent travelers to fast-track to Platinum Status with just 20,000 Elite Points, which is a whopping less than half the standard requirement.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier Airlines

“The New Frontier is our promise to deliver exceptional value with unbeatable flexibility,” said Biffle. “Unlike other airlines, Frontier makes premium benefits, like seat upgrades, truly attainable with lower thresholds for Elite Status. We’re proving that premium travel doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.”

Additionally, new card members can earn up to 100,000 Frontier Miles with qualifying purchases through an exclusive promotion, doubling the usual sign-up bonus.

What’s Next?

Frontier’s latest initiatives certainly mark a bold bid to disrupt the budget airline market by enticing cost-conscious business travelers with premium offerings. This aggressive move comes on the heels of February’s launch of the airline’s ‘Biz Travel For Less’ program, which included perks like premium seating, free carry-on bags, and priority boarding.

While innovative, the program hasn’t achieved the traction Frontier had hoped for. Now, the airline is doubling down with the addition of First Class seating and enhanced loyalty rewards.

Photo: Courtesy of Frontier

These changes are part of a broader strategy not only to recover lost market share but also to combat revenue challenges plaguing the low-cost carrier (LCC) sector. With industry leaders like United’s CEO Scott Kirby openly stating that the budget segment is in financial turmoil, carriers like Frontier, Southwest, and Spirit are pivoting to introduce premium seating and customer-friendly policies once associated only with legacy airlines.

By eliminating fees for flight changes and cancellations across many fare types, Frontier is aligning with the evolving expectations of travelers. However, its gamble on First Class could define whether the LCC model can evolve to meet the demands of a fiercely competitive market. As the airline seeks to carve out a niche among budget-conscious yet value-driven travelers, the coming years will reveal whether these ambitious upgrades will pay off—or if they’re too much, too fast for a segment built on minimalism.