A passenger's experience with baggage size disputes on EasyJet highlights the need for clearer, standardized luggage rules across EU airlines, prompting EU proposals for uniform underseat baggage dimensions and discussions on airline charging practices, amid ongoing consumer and regulatory debates.
Frontier Airlines announced plans to introduce 'first class-style' premium seats by late 2025, as part of a broader initiative called The New Frontier. This move aligns with industry trends where budget airlines like Spirit are offering premium options to boost revenue. Frontier's overhaul includes enhanced loyalty benefits, such as free seat upgrades and companion travel for Elite members. Pricing details for the new seats will be revealed closer to their availability.
Spirit Airlines, a prominent low-cost carrier in the U.S., has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, highlighting the financial struggles faced by budget airlines. Known for its ultra-low-cost model that often results in customer dissatisfaction, Spirit's financial woes reflect broader challenges in the budget airline sector, raising concerns for travelers who rely on affordable air travel options.
Frontier Airlines is introducing a new add-on called UpFront Plus, which will provide extra legroom and block the sale of middle seats in the first two rows of its Airbus planes starting April 10. Prices for this option start at $49 for bookings made by March 20, and the airline intends for it to be a permanent offering. This move reflects a trend among airlines, including budget carriers like Spirit, to segment their cabins and sell higher-priced products or add fees for advance seat selection.
A report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has found that airlines are responsible for most flight cancellations, including those caused by maintenance issues or lack of crew. The GAO also found that airlines are taking longer to recover from disruptions such as storms. The report was requested by Republican leaders of the House Transportation Committee. Airlines have clashed with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg over blame for high rates of canceled and delayed flights in the past two years.