Frontier and Spirit Airlines Just Eliminated Most Change and Cancellation Fees — What to Know

U.S. budget carriers say they are entering an era of price transparency.

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Two of the largest budget carriers in the U.S. have eliminated nearly all change and cancellation fees — making it easier for travelers to modify their flights than ever before.

On Friday, Frontier Airlines introduced four new fare classes: basic, economy, premium, and business. Each level offers varying amenities like seat selection and baggage, while the three highest fare classes come with the new key benefit of no change and cancellation fees.

While changing a flight on Frontier is now free for those classes, travelers must pay any differences in airfare. On the other hand, canceling a trip altogether (more than 24 hours after booking) will give fliers a future trip credit with Frontier.

"Today marks the beginning of a new era for Frontier — one with transparency in our prices, no change fees, and the lowest total price," Frontier’s CEO, Biffle, said in a statement. "This is 'The New Frontier,' and we are committed to offering more than the lowest fares — we deliver the best price for all the options you want and the customer support you need when you need it.”

Spirit quickly followed its competitor by rolling out the new change and cancellation policies on its website late Friday. Travelers can now enjoy full flexibility in modifying their flights, subject to fare differences and travel credits depending on the booking. Modifying a Spirit flight previously cost travelers up to $119 in fees — often more than the cost of the airfare itself.

“As we have said, Spirit has been evaluating changes to our product and strategy that will help us better compete, elevate the guest experience, and return to profitability,” the airline shared in a statement. “We are excited to roll out a no change and no cancel fee policy for all guests effective May 17. This new policy is among the best in the industry because it applies to each and every guest. We have many other enhancements in the works and look forward to sharing more soon.”

The moves from these low-cost airlines are no coincidence as the Department of Transportation (DOT) ruled in April that U.S. airlines must disclose so-called “junk fees,” including checking a bag or changing flights. Major airlines including American, Delta, United, JetBlue, Hawaiian, and Alaska, along with lobbying group Airlines for America, filed suit against the DOT last week to overturn the ruling.

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