Frontier Airlines has confirmed it will introduce new ‘first class’ seating in early 2026, over a year after the initial announcement, due to supply chain delays. The ultra-low-cost carrier originally unveiled plans for premium seating in December 2024, but installation has been pushed back.
The seats will be arranged in a 2x2 configuration and will occupy the first two rows on Frontier's Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft. While labelled first class, the seats more closely resemble premium economy and will not recline or offer lie-flat capabilities; instead, they will be pre-reclined to reduce weight and save fuel. The seats are manufactured by Italian firm Geven.
No fares have been disclosed yet, but Frontier has indicated they will be ‘at our trademark affordable prices’. Based on the carrier's existing fare structure, travellers might expect to pay up to $99. Complimentary upgrades will be available to loyalty programme members with Diamond, Platinum, or Gold status.
The move marks a shift for Frontier, known for its no-frills model. Currently, the airline offers ‘UpFront Plus’ (middle seat blocked) and ‘Stretch’ (extra legroom and recline) as upgrades, costing between $16 and $49. The new first-class seating is seen as an effort to broaden appeal.
Former CEO Barry Biffle, who announced the initiative, said it would help transform Frontier ‘into the most rewarding airline’. Since then, Biffle has been replaced by former president James G. Dempsey as interim CEO. Board Chair Bill Franke praised Biffle’s 11-year tenure and expressed confidence in Dempsey’s leadership.
