In a significant shift for the U.S. commercial airline industry, low-cost carriers Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines have announced updated policies eliminating most change and cancellation fees. This move towards greater customer flexibility coincides with a recent Department of Transportation (DOT) ruling mandating increased transparency regarding ancillary fees associated with air travel.
Frontier’s revised policy implements a nuanced approach, exempting certain fare classes (basic fares) from the fee waivers for cancellations and changes made within 60 days of departure. In contrast, Spirit Airlines has adopted a more comprehensive customer-centric strategy, as evidenced by their website’s declaration of “no change fees for all.” This newfound emphasis on flexibility stands in stark contrast to the lawsuit filed by several major airlines. These carriers contend that the DOT’s ruling will overwhelm consumers with excessive information during the booking process.
Notably, Southwest Airlines, a long-standing proponent of free checked baggage and flexible booking options, has abstained from participating in the legal challenge. This underscores the contrasting industry philosophies – budget airlines embracing transparency and passenger-friendly policies, while larger carriers prioritize potential financial repercussions. The policy changes enacted by Spirit and Frontier align with the Biden Administration’s broader initiative to eliminate hidden fees across various service sectors, extending beyond the airline industry.
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