Frontier Airlines is known for its discount fares and robust frequent flyer program, Frontier Miles. For travelers who frequently fly with Frontier Airlines, the loyalty program can offer great value. With Frontier Miles, members have the opportunity to earn miles and elite status, which come with a range of benefits such as complimentary carry-on luggage, advance seat assignments, and the ability to pool miles. These miles can then be redeemed for award travel.
It’s important to note that the Frontier Miles loyalty program underwent significant changes in January 2024. The program moved to a revenue-based model of accumulating miles and status, and introduced updates to its elite program. In this article, we will provide an overview of how the program works and how members can earn and redeem miles.
Earning Frontier Miles and Points
The Frontier Miles program is free to join, and members can earn miles and points towards status in various ways. One way to earn Frontier miles is by making eligible Frontier purchases. Under the new revenue-based mileage accrual system, members earn miles based on the dollar amount of their ticket and any additional products purchased, such as bags, seat assignments, and bundles of optional services. Previously, miles were accumulated based on the length of the flight.
The earning rates on purchases vary based on status. Non-elites start at a rate of 10 miles and points per dollar spent, while the highest tier, Elite Diamond, earns up to 20 miles and points per dollar spent. In 2024, Frontier added a fourth status tier, Elite Silver, which starts at 10,000 elite status points.
Members can also earn miles and points by using the Frontier Airlines credit card, offered in partnership with Barclays. New cardmembers can earn 50,000 bonus miles and a $100 flight voucher after meeting specific spending requirements. The card offers 5 miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases with Frontier, 3 miles per dollar spent at restaurants, and 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases. These miles count towards elite status and the card also provides benefits such as 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. Members can earn bonus miles on eligible purchases and transfers from these partners.
Redeeming Frontier Miles
Frontier miles can be redeemed for flights and magazines. The best use of Frontier miles is typically for award flights. The airline has an award chart with starting rates, but there are additional fees associated with award bookings.
Frontier offers three redemption tiers: Value, Standard, and Last Seat. Value tickets have the lowest redemption rate and are generally available during off-peak dates or 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 are only available to elite members and cost 2,500 more miles each way than Standard awards.
Frontier’s award chart provides starting rates for travel within the US and Puerto Rico, as well as to and from various international destinations. Fees are also associated with award tickets, with the amount depending on the proximity to departure. Frontier elite status members and those with a Frontier Airlines credit card can have these fees waived.
In conclusion, Frontier Miles can be a great value for Frontier Airlines travelers. The program allows members to earn miles and elite status through eligible purchases, credit card spending, and partnerships. These miles can then be redeemed for award travel, with various redemption tiers available. While there are fees associated with award bookings, these can be waived for elite members and cardholders. Overall, Frontier Miles provides opportunities for travelers to make their journeys more enjoyable and cost-effective.
