Frontier Airlines
A United States ultra-low-cost carrier operating an extensive domestic and leisure network, primarily with Airbus narrow-body aircraft from its Denver base.
About Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is an American ultra-low-cost carrier founded in 1994 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado. It is owned by Indigo Partners, a private-equity firm specializing in low-cost aviation. The airline uses an animal-themed identity, featuring wildlife portraits on its aircraft tails, while its commercial model emphasizes low base fares with optional paid extras.
Denver is Frontier’s primary hub and largest departure point, supported by substantial operations from Orlando and other cities. Its network comprises 283 routes serving 95 destinations across four countries. The schedule focuses on domestic United States services and leisure-oriented international links, including flights to Mexico and the Caribbean through destinations such as Cancun and Punta Cana.
Frontier’s current mainline operation centers on fuel-efficient Airbus A320-family aircraft, including A319 and A320 variants, while aircraft records also encompass the Airbus A318 and earlier regional types such as the Beech 1900, Embraer EMB-120, ERJ-135/140/145 and ERJ-190. Flights use an economy-focused cabin, with extra-legroom or enhanced seating products available on selected aircraft and routes.
Frontier does not belong to Star Alliance, SkyTeam or Oneworld, so passengers should not expect the reciprocal lounge access, through-ticketing and status benefits offered by a global alliance. Its loyalty scheme is FRONTIER Miles, through which members can earn miles and pursue elite status. The separate Discount Den membership provides access to selected promotional fares and benefits for eligible bookings.
Frontier’s principal strength is its ability to offer low headline fares across a broad network, particularly for flexible travellers who can travel lightly. The trade-off is an unbundled experience: carry-on bags, checked luggage, advance seat assignments and some airport services may cost extra. Comparing the complete trip price, rather than the initial fare alone, is especially important when evaluating Frontier against full-service airlines.
Good to know
Flying with Frontier Airlines — what to expect
Unbundled Fare Model
The lowest fares generally cover transportation and a personal item. Carry-on bags, checked baggage, seat selection and other options may add substantially to the final price.
Check Bag Prices
Baggage charges vary by itinerary and when they are purchased. Adding bags online before arriving at the airport is generally preferable to paying at check-in or the gate.
Personal Item Rules
A personal item fitting beneath the seat is normally included, while a larger carry-on may require payment. Check the allowance shown for your booking because oversized items can incur higher charges at the gate.
Seat Options
Standard seating is economy-focused, with paid choices offering benefits such as additional legroom or improved seat location. Families and groups should review seat assignments before travel rather than assuming they will be seated together.
Denver Connections
Denver is Frontier’s primary hub and offers its broadest range of onward routes. Allow a sensible connection window, especially when separate bookings or checked baggage are involved.
Airport Service Fees
Some optional services can cost more when handled by an airport agent. Complete check-in, obtain a boarding pass and manage extras digitally where possible.
Network overview
Where Frontier Airlines flies
Frontier Airlines operates 283 routes to 95 destinations across 4 countries, its longest sector reaching Chicago to Punta Cana (3,192 km nonstop).
Destinations served
Cities Frontier Airlines flies to, most-served first.
Main hubs
Busiest departure bases, by route count.
Fleet
Aircraft types on record for these routes.
Longest nonstop route
Chicago → Punta Cana
3,192 km · ORD → PUJ
The longest sector in the Frontier Airlines network, measured as the great-circle distance between the two airports.
Route data · TravelPayouts route data · updated 2026-07
Route network
Popular routes operated by Frontier Airlines
More from United States
Other airlines based in United States
FAQ
Frontier Airlines — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
8 common questions
- Frontier Airlines serves 95 destinations across four countries, operating 283 routes.
- Frontier fares are often lowest when booked early for off-peak travel, particularly on midweek dates outside holidays and school breaks. Compare the total cost after adding baggage, seats and other services.
- Frontier flies across the United States and to selected international leisure destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. Notable cities include Denver, Orlando, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Cancun and Punta Cana.
- Originfacts compares live fares from hundreds of airlines and travel agencies via its partner Travelpayouts. Originfacts never adds a fee.
- Frontier Airlines's longest route is Chicago to Punta Cana, covering about 3,192 km nonstop.
- Frontier’s busiest departure markets by route count are Denver, Orlando, Cancun, Los Angeles and Kansas City. Available frequencies and destinations vary seasonally.
- Denver is Frontier Airlines's primary hub and busiest departure point. Orlando is another major operating base, while Cancun, Los Angeles and Kansas City also support notable route activity.
- The standard fare usually includes a personal item that fits beneath the seat, while a larger carry-on bag commonly costs extra. Check the current size and weight rules on Frontier’s website before departure, as gate charges may apply to noncompliant bags.