Frontier's UpFront Plus Gives Flyers More Legroom and an Empty Middle Seat for a Fee, Starting at $49 Per Flight Segment

Flying has become more uncomfortable -- airplanes are more jam-packed with passengers due to increased travel demand. Plus, airlines are cutting routes to fill as many seats as possible. Feeling trapped in a middle seat between two other passengers is not anyone's idea of a good time.

Some people are willing to pay extra fees to improve their comfort while flying, but not every flyer can afford a first or business class ticket. However, there may be other options.

Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines has launched its new UpFront Plus upgrade, which will give flyers more legroom and the promise of an empty middle seat in exchange for a fee. Here's what you need to know before you buy your next Frontier ticket.

Introducing UpFront Plus

If you value added comfort when flying, you may be interested in Frontier's UpFront Plus upgrade service. For an additional fee, travelers can select a window or aisle seat within the first two rows of the aircraft and enjoy extra legroom and a guaranteed empty middle seat.

This add-on service will appeal to fliers who value extra personal space. UpFront Plus upgrades are now available for flights departing on or after April 10. According to a press release from Frontier, these seats are limited, and restrictions apply.

Customers can book UpFront Plus seating upgrades starting at $49 per passenger per flight segment. This introductory pricing is available when purchased by March 20, 2024, and applies to flights departing between April 10 and April 30.

When flying with Frontier, you'll pay a seat selection fee to choose your desired seat. Travelers will have the following seat selection choices when booking Frontier tickets:

• Standard: Provides a regular seat of your choosing.
• Preferred: Offers a quick exit, with seats near the front of the aircraft.
• Premium: Provides extra legroom and comfort.
• UpFront Plus: Offers a blocked middle seat, more elbow room, extra legroom and comfort, a quick exit with seats located in the first two rows of the aircraft, and the first to get in-flight service.

Frontier is known for charging extra fees

Before booking a Frontier ticket, keep your expectations in check. Frontier is a no-frills carrier, so while the company sells low-cost airfare, you should research the total cost of flying with the airline. Your ticket only includes a small personal item, so you should budget for bag fees unless you can pack all your essentials in a tiny backpack or purse.

Here are some additional fees to expect:

• Seat selection
• Web check-in
• Snacks and drinks
• Carry-on bag
• Checked bag

These fees are charged for each flight segment and can vary by route. You can use Frontier's bag price checker tool to verify prices before you fly so you can adjust your vacation budget accordingly. It's wise to ensure you'll save money flying with Frontier before choosing another airline. Considering all the additional fees, some other airlines may be cheaper.

Is the added comfort worth it?

Only you can decide whether paying for Frontier's UpFront Plus upgrade is worthwhile. If you value personal space and comfort, it might be an expense you're willing to pay for, especially if you want an improved flight experience.

But before making travel plans, always consider your finances. It's never a good idea to pay for travel upgrades that could result in you racking up expensive credit card debt. For additional tips, check out our personal finance resources.