Frontier Airlines is known for its affordable fares and robust frequent flyer program, Frontier Miles. For travelers who frequently fly with Frontier Airlines, this loyalty program can offer great value and various perks. In January 2024, the program underwent significant changes, transitioning to a revenue-based model and introducing updates to its elite program. In this article, we will provide an overview of how the program works and how you can make the most of it.
To start, the Frontier Miles program is free to join. Previously, Frontier Miles were accumulated based on the length of your flight, but under the new revenue-based system, you earn miles based on the dollar amount of your ticket and any additional products you purchase, such as bags, seat assignments, and optional services. Non-elites earn 10 miles and points per dollar spent, while the earning rates increase up to 20 miles and points for every dollar spent at the highest elite tier, Elite Diamond.
Frontier Miles offers various ways to earn miles and points. Besides making eligible Frontier purchases, you can also earn miles by using the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard®, a co-branded credit card offered in partnership with Barclays. New cardmembers can earn 50,000 bonus miles and a $100 flight voucher by spending $500 on purchases and paying the $89 annual fee within the first 90 days of card membership. With this card, you earn 5 miles for every dollar spent directly with Frontier, 3 miles per dollar at restaurants, and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases. The miles earned on this card count toward elite status and come with additional benefits like Zone 2 boarding and family pooling.
Frontier Airlines also has partnerships with rental car companies, Marriott Bonvoy, Wyndham Rewards, Vinesse Wine, Teleflora, and Frontier Cruises. By booking through these partners or making eligible purchases, you can earn bonus miles and points. However, it’s important to note that the transfer ratios from Marriott Bonvoy and Wyndham Rewards to Frontier Miles are not favorable, and it may be better to redeem those points for hotel stays instead.
Once you have accumulated Frontier miles, you can redeem them for flights. Frontier offers three different redemption tiers: Value, Standard, and Last Seat. Value tickets are the lowest redemption rate and are generally available during off-peak dates and less desirable flights. Standard awards are priced at twice the cost of Value tickets and are available on more dates. Last Seat awards can be booked until the last seat on the plane is booked, but they are only available to Frontier elite members and cost 2,500 more miles each way than Standard awards.
It’s important to be aware of the fees associated with Frontier award tickets. Frontier adds a booking fee to most award tickets, with the amount increasing the closer you get to the departure date. However, these fees are waived for Frontier elite status members and those with a Frontier Airlines credit card. If you frequently book award tickets close to departure, it may be worthwhile to consider applying for a Frontier credit card to save on these fees.
In conclusion, Frontier Miles can be a great value for Frontier Airlines travelers. By earning and redeeming miles, you can enjoy various perks and benefits, including complimentary carry-on luggage, advance seat assignments, and the ability to pool your miles. Despite the changes implemented in January 2024, the program remains a valuable option for frequent flyers of Frontier Airlines.