Selecting JetBlue vs Frontier Airlines for your trip can make all the difference in your quality of travel and cost. Both airlines do fly to popular destinations within the US, but they have very different target audiences. Find out with this helpful guide which airline is the best value for your next flight.

JetBlue Airways: Premium Budget Experience

Pros of JetBlue Airways

• Ample Seat Space: JetBlue claims to have the widest economy seats in the U.S., boasting 32-34 inches of legroom versus the standard 28-31 inches on other airlines. Making long-distance flying more comfortable.
• Freebies: JetBlue is not an ultra-low-cost carrier, so it allows free carry-on and personal item bags, snacks and drinks for all users. Its unlimited mix of snacks and free Wi-Fi messaging also distinguishes it from budget rivals.
• On the Ground: The root of JetBlue’s success is its excellent customer service, both in the airport terminals and on the airline’s famously friendly flight attendants. In-Flight Entertainment Special seatback screen with free live TV and movies, and streaming content, no app or devices required.
• Customer Service: JetBlue receives consistently better rankings in customer satisfaction surveys, with a more attentive level of service and less negative feedback per passenger than the ultra-low-cost carriers.

Cons of JetBlue Airways

• More expensive base fares: JetBlue fares are generally 30 to 50 per cent higher than Frontier’s bare-bone fares, which can add up, especially if you’re travelling on a tight budget.
• Limited Route Map: JetBlue does well over major cities, but its network is nowhere near as vast as the legacy carriers, so you may have to connect for some destinations.
• Baggage Fees: JetBlue still charges $35-45 for your first checked bag unless you have elite status or a co-branded credit card, despite the generous inclusions.

Frontier Airlines: The Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier

Pros of Flying Frontier

• Unbeatable Base Fares: Frontier regularly has deals flying for as low as $19-39 for one-way flights, so if you can live without the extras, it’s definitely the cheapest way to fly. 
• Flexible Add-Ons: You pay only for a la carte services that you need, which in some cases can result in savings if you travel light and do not require the amenities. 
• Wide Route Map: Frontier flies over 100 destinations, including a number of smaller cities that other airlines ignore, providing nonstop service where others make connecting stops. 
• Discount Den Membership: Fliers who frequently use the service can apply for the membership program, which brings down prices even further.

Cons of Flying Frontier

• Restrictions on Baggage: For every shirt, you can fold up to three pants, as well as two jackets and three pairs of shoes. Carry-ons are $60-65 at the gate, and checked bags are $30-60, depending on when you buy.
•  Limited Legroom: Standard seats have only 28-31 inches of pitch, so taller travellers might get uncomfortable on the flight. Stretch seating costs extra.
• No Free Goodies: Feel free to purchase water, snacks, seat assignments, or even to print out your boarding passes in the airport ($2 charge).
•  Less Reliable Service: Compared to JetBlue, Frontier is more likely to get delayed or cancelled, and when problems do arise, you will find it harder to get help.

Which Airline Offers the Best Value?

Choose JetBlue if you:

• Comfort on 2- to 3-hour-plus flights should be a priority
• Looking for a line item pricing that is more predictable and has fewer surprise fees
• Appreciate the dependable service and superior customer care
• Want to check a bag and bring a carry-on without fees

Choose Frontier if you

• Travel singly with the need for just one personal item, not a carry-on
• Bring long-distance flights shorter than 2 hours
• Require some flexibility in travel dates to find the lowest fares
• Don’t mind trading comfort for big savings.

Money-Saving Tips

JetBlue: 

Book directly from the site for JetBlue and opt for the Blue Basic fare if seat selection is not a priority. Join TrueBlue to accumulate points for free flights more quickly.

Frontier: 

Sign up for its Discount Den, fly during sales, and pay for baggage and seats when you book (you’ll be charged more at the gate). Pack strategically, and your personal item can hold everything you need.

The Bottom Line

For a majority of travellers who want some middle ground between the high cost of flying and being crammed into a seat on a plane, JetBlue offers better overall value. However, Frontier is still the best option for ultra-budget travellers who don’t mind navigating through their fee structure and travelling light. To find the best overall deal for your needs, add up all costs, which may include checked bags and seat selection, before you book.