JoshSpirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines are two of the most popular ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) in the United States. Both airlines offer low fares and charge fees for many of the services that are included in the ticket prices of traditional airlines. However, there are some key differences between the two airlines that passengers should be aware of before booking a flight.
One of the main differences between Spirit and Frontier is their flight experience. Spirit is known for its minimalist approach, with seats that do not recline and limited legroom. Frontier, on the other hand, offers more comfortable seats and more legroom, but charges extra for amenities such as carry-on bags and seat selection. Additionally, Spirit has a reputation for frequent delays and cancellations, while Frontier has a better on-time performance record.
Another important factor to consider when comparing Spirit and Frontier is their pricing and fees. Although both airlines offer low base fares, Spirit tends to have more fees for additional services such as checked bags, carry-on bags, and seat selection. Frontier charges for many of the same services, but their fees are generally lower than Spirit’s. It’s important for passengers to carefully read the airline’s policies and fees before booking a flight to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Key Takeaways
- Spirit and Frontier are both ULCCs that offer low fares and charge fees for many services.
- Spirit has a minimalist flight experience with limited legroom, while Frontier offers more comfortable seats and more legroom for an additional fee.
- Spirit generally has higher fees for additional services than Frontier, but Frontier has a better on-time performance record.
Spirit Vs Frontier: An Overview
When it comes to low-cost carriers in the U.S. airline industry, Spirit Airlines and Frontier are two of the most well-known names. Both airlines are considered ultra-low-cost carriers, offering budget-friendly fares to travelers. However, there are significant differences between the two airlines that set them apart.
One of the most significant differences between Spirit and Frontier is their approach to fees. While both airlines charge for things like checked bags and seat assignments, Spirit is notorious for its long list of additional fees, including fees for carry-on bags and printing boarding passes at the airport. Frontier, on the other hand, has a more straightforward fee structure, with fees for checked bags and seat assignments being the most significant additional costs.
Another difference between the two airlines is their route networks. While both airlines offer flights to popular destinations across the United States, Spirit has a more extensive route network, with flights to destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Frontier, on the other hand, has a smaller route network, focusing primarily on domestic flights within the United States.
When it comes to in-flight amenities, both airlines offer a no-frills experience, with limited legroom and no complimentary snacks or beverages. However, Spirit has recently made some changes to its in-flight experience, including the addition of more comfortable seats and the option to purchase snacks and drinks on board.
Overall, while both Spirit and Frontier offer budget-friendly fares, travelers should carefully consider the additional fees and route networks of each airline before booking a flight.
Flight Experience
When it comes to flying, the experience can make or break a trip. Spirit and Frontier both offer a variety of seating options, inflight entertainment, and amenities to make the journey more comfortable.
Seating Comfort
Both airlines offer standard seats with limited legroom, but they also have options for those who want more space. Spirit offers Big Front Seats, which are wider and have more legroom than standard seats. Frontier offers Stretch Seats, which also have more legroom and are located in the front of the plane.
Inflight Entertainment
Neither airline offers seatback screens, but both offer inflight entertainment through personal devices. Spirit offers free access to movies, TV shows, and games through their app, while Frontier charges for access to movies and TV shows on their app.
Amenities
Spirit and Frontier both charge for most amenities, including snacks and drinks. However, Spirit offers a wider variety of snacks and drinks for purchase, including alcoholic beverages. Frontier offers a limited selection of snacks and drinks for purchase. Both airlines offer Wi-Fi for purchase on select flights.
Overall, the flight experience on Spirit and Frontier is similar in terms of seating comfort and amenities. However, Spirit offers more options for inflight entertainment and a wider variety of snacks and drinks for purchase. Frontier may be a better option for those looking for more legroom, as their Stretch Seats are located in the front of the plane.
Pricing and Fees
Ticket Prices
When comparing Spirit and Frontier airlines, one of the most significant differences is the ticket prices. Both airlines are known for their low-cost fares, but Spirit Airlines is generally considered to be the cheaper of the two. Spirit Airlines has a reputation for offering “bare-bones” fares, which means that passengers only pay for the basic ticket price. On the other hand, Frontier Airlines offers a slightly higher ticket price, but it includes some additional benefits like free snacks and drinks.
Baggage Fees
Both Spirit and Frontier airlines charge extra fees for checked bags. However, Spirit Airlines charges significantly more than Frontier Airlines. Spirit Airlines charges a fee for each checked bag, and the price varies depending on the weight and size of the bag. Frontier Airlines also charges a fee for checked bags, but the price is generally lower than Spirit Airlines. Frontier Airlines also offers a discount for passengers who pre-purchase their baggage allowance online.
Seat Selection Fees
Both airlines also charge extra fees for seat selection. Spirit Airlines charges a fee for selecting any seat, including standard seats. Frontier Airlines, on the other hand, offers free seat selection for passengers who purchase certain fares. For passengers who do not purchase those fares, Frontier Airlines charges a fee for selecting a standard seat.
Extra Fees
In addition to baggage and seat selection fees, both airlines charge extra fees for various services. For example, if a passenger wants to bring a carry-on bag, they will need to pay an additional fee. Spirit Airlines charges for any carry-on bag, while Frontier Airlines allows one free personal item and charges for carry-on bags. Spirit Airlines also charges extra fees for printing boarding passes at the airport, while Frontier Airlines does not.
Overall, when comparing Spirit and Frontier airlines, Spirit Airlines generally offers lower ticket prices but charges more for baggage and seat selection. Frontier Airlines offers slightly higher ticket prices but includes some additional benefits like free snacks and drinks.
Destinations and Routes
Domestic Routes
Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines both offer a wide range of domestic routes across the United States. Some of the most popular destinations include Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Denver, New York, Chicago, Florida, Atlanta, Orlando, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Newark, Philadelphia, and Detroit.
Spirit Airlines offers direct flights to many of these destinations, including Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, and New York City. Frontier Airlines also offers direct flights to many of these destinations, including South Florida, Boston, and Denver.
Both airlines offer affordable fares for domestic routes, with Spirit Airlines typically offering lower fares than Frontier Airlines. However, passengers should be aware that both airlines charge extra fees for additional services, such as checked bags and seat selection.
International Routes
When it comes to international routes, Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines have different strengths. Spirit Airlines offers flights to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America, while Frontier Airlines focuses more on routes to Canada and the Caribbean.
Spirit Airlines offers direct flights to popular destinations such as Cancun, Mexico and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Frontier Airlines offers direct flights to destinations such as Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Both airlines offer competitive fares for international routes, with Spirit Airlines typically offering lower fares than Frontier Airlines. However, passengers should be aware that both airlines charge extra fees for additional services, such as checked bags and seat selection.
Overall, travelers looking for affordable domestic flights may find Spirit Airlines to be the better option, while those looking for international flights to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America may prefer Spirit Airlines. Frontier Airlines may be a better choice for travelers looking for flights to Canada or the Caribbean.
Loyalty Programs and Credit Cards
Rewards Programs
Both Spirit and Frontier offer loyalty programs that reward customers for their continued business. Spirit’s program is called Free Spirit, while Frontier’s is known as Frontier Miles. Both programs allow customers to earn points or miles for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other purchases.
Free Spirit has two tiers of membership: Gold and Silver. Gold members receive benefits such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to exclusive lounges. Silver members receive some of the same benefits, but to a lesser degree.
Frontier Miles also has two tiers: Elite 20k and Elite 50k. Elite 20k members receive priority boarding and access to exclusive discounts, while Elite 50k members receive additional benefits such as free checked bags and lounge access.
Credit Cards
Both airlines offer credit cards that allow customers to earn even more rewards for their purchases. Spirit’s credit card is called the Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard®, while Frontier’s is known as the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard.
The Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard® offers benefits such as bonus points for signing up, double points on all purchases, and a free checked bag on every flight. The card also offers additional benefits for Gold and Silver members of the Free Spirit program.
The Frontier Airlines World Mastercard offers benefits such as bonus miles for signing up, double miles on all purchases, and a $100 flight voucher each year. The card also offers additional benefits for Elite 20k and Elite 50k members of the Frontier Miles program.
In conclusion, both Spirit and Frontier offer loyalty programs and credit cards that allow customers to earn rewards for their purchases. While the specifics of each program may differ, both are designed to reward frequent flyers and make travel more affordable.
Customer Service
When it comes to customer service, Spirit and Frontier have both received mixed reviews from customers. While both airlines have made efforts to improve their customer service, there are still some areas where they fall short.
One area where Spirit and Frontier have received criticism is their customer service agents. Some customers have reported that agents are not knowledgeable or helpful when it comes to answering questions or resolving issues. This can be frustrating for customers who are already dealing with flight delays or other issues.
Another area where Spirit and Frontier have received criticism is their gates. Customers have reported that gates are sometimes chaotic and disorganized, with long lines and confusion about boarding procedures. This can lead to frustration and delays for customers.
Despite these criticisms, both airlines have also received praise for their customer service. Some customers have reported that employees are friendly and helpful, and that issues are resolved quickly and efficiently. Additionally, both airlines have made efforts to improve their customer service in recent years, such as offering more training for employees and implementing new technology to streamline the check-in process.
Overall, while there is room for improvement, both Spirit and Frontier have made efforts to improve their customer service and provide a positive experience for their customers.
Business Models and Marketing
Both Spirit and Frontier operate on a low-cost carrier business model, which means they focus on providing affordable air travel to their customers by cutting down on extra amenities and services. However, they have different approaches to this model.
Spirit Airlines offers a “bare fare” pricing strategy where passengers only pay for the flight and any additional services they require, such as baggage, seat selection, and food. This approach allows Spirit to keep its base fares low and attract budget-conscious travelers. The airline also generates revenue through partnerships with hotels, car rental companies, and other travel-related businesses.
On the other hand, Frontier Airlines offers a “value fare” pricing strategy where passengers pay for the flight and some additional services such as seat selection, carry-on bags, and checked bags. Frontier also offers a frequent flyer program and a credit card that rewards customers with miles for their purchases. This approach allows Frontier to offer more services to its customers while still keeping its fares low.
Both airlines heavily rely on digital marketing to reach their target audience. They use social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to advertise their low fares and promotions. They also send regular email newsletters to their subscribers, informing them about upcoming deals and discounts.
Spirit Airlines’ current slogan is “Less Money, More Go,” which emphasizes their commitment to providing affordable air travel. Frontier Airlines’ current slogan is “Low Fares Done Right,” which highlights their value-based approach to air travel.
Overall, both Spirit and Frontier have similar business models, but they differ in their pricing strategies and additional services. They both heavily rely on digital marketing to reach their customers and have catchy slogans that reflect their brand values.
Safety Measures
When it comes to choosing between Spirit and Frontier airlines, safety is a major concern for most travelers. Both airlines have implemented various safety measures to ensure the safety and security of their passengers.
One of the primary safety measures implemented by both airlines is the use of modern aircraft with advanced safety features. Both airlines have invested heavily in their aircraft fleet, with Spirit operating Airbus A320 family aircraft and Frontier operating Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. These aircraft are equipped with advanced safety features such as anti-icing systems, turbulence detection systems, and advanced avionics systems.
In addition to modern aircraft, both airlines have implemented strict safety protocols and procedures. These protocols cover everything from pre-flight safety checks to emergency procedures. Both airlines also conduct regular safety training for their flight crews to ensure that they are well-equipped to handle any emergency situation.
Another important safety measure implemented by both airlines is the use of advanced security screening procedures. Both Spirit and Frontier airlines work closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure that all passengers and their luggage are thoroughly screened before boarding their flights.
Overall, both Spirit and Frontier airlines take safety and security very seriously. While no airline can guarantee 100% safety, both airlines have implemented a range of safety measures to ensure that their passengers can travel with confidence and peace of mind.
Comparison with Major Airlines
When comparing Spirit and Frontier to other major airlines, there are some notable differences in their offerings and services. Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up against American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue.
American Airlines
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and offers a range of classes for passengers including first class, business class, and economy. While Spirit and Frontier do not offer a first class or business class option, American Airlines’ economy class fares are generally more expensive than those of Spirit and Frontier. American Airlines also offers more amenities on board, such as free snacks and beverages, and in-flight entertainment.
Delta
Delta is another major airline that offers a range of classes for passengers including first class, business class, and economy. Delta’s economy fares are generally more expensive than those of Spirit and Frontier, but they also offer more amenities on board, such as free snacks and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Delta also has a larger network of routes and destinations than Spirit and Frontier.
United
United is a major airline that offers a range of classes for passengers including first class, business class, and economy. United’s economy fares are generally more expensive than those of Spirit and Frontier, but they also offer more amenities on board, such as free snacks and beverages, and in-flight entertainment. United also has a larger network of routes and destinations than Spirit and Frontier.
JetBlue
JetBlue is a low-cost carrier that is similar to Spirit and Frontier in terms of its pricing structure. JetBlue offers a range of amenities on board, such as free snacks and beverages, and in-flight entertainment, which sets it apart from Spirit and Frontier. However, JetBlue’s network of routes and destinations is smaller than that of American Airlines, Delta, and United.
Overall, while Spirit and Frontier may be cheaper than other major airlines, they also offer fewer amenities and services on board. Passengers who are looking for a more comfortable and convenient flying experience may want to consider one of the major airlines that offer first class or business class options, as well as more amenities on board.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Spirit and Frontier compare in terms of pricing?
Both Spirit and Frontier are budget airlines that offer low fares. However, Spirit tends to have lower base fares and charges for most additional services, while Frontier has slightly higher base fares but includes some services like seat selection and carry-on bags in the ticket price.
What are the differences between Spirit and Frontier’s loyalty programs?
Spirit has a loyalty program called Free Spirit that allows members to earn points for flights and other purchases. Frontier has a similar program called Frontier Miles. While both programs offer rewards like free flights and seat upgrades, Free Spirit has more partner airlines and hotels for earning and redeeming points.
Which airline offers better inflight amenities: Spirit or Frontier?
Both airlines are no-frills carriers and do not offer many inflight amenities. Spirit charges for all food and beverages, while Frontier offers some free snacks and drinks. Both airlines have seats with limited legroom and charge for extra legroom seats.
What is the baggage policy for Spirit and Frontier?
Spirit and Frontier both have strict baggage policies and charge for all checked and carry-on bags. Spirit’s fees are generally higher than Frontier’s, and Spirit also charges for some personal items like backpacks and purses. Both airlines have weight and size restrictions for bags.
How do Spirit and Frontier compare in terms of on-time performance?
Both airlines have had issues with on-time performance in the past, but Frontier has generally had better on-time rates than Spirit. According to recent data, Frontier had an on-time rate of around 80%, while Spirit’s was around 75%.
Which airline offers better customer service: Spirit or Frontier?
Both airlines have received criticism for their customer service in the past, but Frontier has generally had slightly better ratings than Spirit. Frontier has made efforts to improve its customer service in recent years, while Spirit has faced backlash for its strict policies and fees.