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| - After reading the reviews and ultimately flying Frontier airlines, I am convinced either they are getting unfair criticism or I had a series of over-average experiences.
Nevertheless, my experiences were pleasant enough that I felt compelled to write a review and defend the airline. I truly have no skin in the game, but I think it's only right to give credit where credit is due.
I flew with my two young daughters the week before Thanksgiving from Las Vegas to Orlando. Hassles, crowding, delays and a total nightmare, right? Nope. The terminal check-in process took roughly 5 minutes. Boarding was prompt at the gate. The flight left on time. The flight landed early. And everyone wearing a Frontier uniform, at the airport and in the sky, was pleasant and professional. The flight back to Las Vegas was generally the same. The flight was delayed by roughly 30 minutes, but I find that pretty common when taking evening flights (6:45PM in my case).
The next week - the day before Thanksgiving - I flew the same route, this time alone. And my experience was identical. And through it all, I just kept wondering why so many folks are so horrified by this airline.
Yes, everything from luggage to snacks on board are a la carte. Even the seat you select. But in my mind this empowers the consumer. And honestly, what else do you expect when your cross country flight costs $79?!
For me and my two daughters, I checked one bag, which meant only $30 each way for baggage. I stuffed my backpack full of snacks and activities, so I wouldn't need to bring (read: pay for) a carry on bag. And we selected the least expensive seat options. It's really not that hard to figure out or navigate through, if you have half a brain and are informed going into the experience. I printed our boarding passes online to ensure a smooth check in process. And we weren't bent out of shape by the seats lack of reclining or the legroom - which I thought was standard.
Frontier passengers should know what they're signing up for and decide how they want to handle the a la carte costs. But it's sad when consumers are uninformed of a companies policies - and then criticize them after they determine they don't like them. Shame on you for buying a $79 ticket and then being SHOCKED when your subjected to additional fees.
Have a clue. Do your homework. Make the experience what you want. And enjoy the low fares. My two daughters and I went to Orlando and back, the week before Thanksgiving, for a total of $381. The price on Southwest was more than that... for one ticket.
Thank you, Frontier. I will be flying you again.
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