Say Goodbye to Boarding Chaos: Frontier Expands to 7 Groups

Updated: October 2, 2025, 3:24pm CDT

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How the New Boarding Groups Work
Final Thoughts

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If you’ve flown Frontier Airlines recently, or any other low-cost carrier for that matter, you know the anticipation — and occasional chaos — of boarding.

Today, Frontier is officially making the process easier and more predictable by streamlining its boarding process and increasing the number of boarding groups from 4 to 7. The goal? A faster, more organized experience for everyone, from basic fare passengers to the airline’s most loyal frequent flyers.

Here’s everything you need to know about Frontier’s new boarding process.

How the New Boarding Groups Work

Frontier Airlines‘ updated boarding process is designed to reward loyalty while improving efficiency.

For starters, preboarding will still be reserved for passengers requiring extra time, active-duty military personnel, top-tier Frontier Miles Elite Diamond members, and families traveling with children under 2 (including those with car seats or strollers).

Frontier IAH to ONT boarding — Frontier’s new 7-group boarding system is expected to make the process smoother. Image Credit: Jessica Merritt

Here’s the breakdown on the rest of the newly revised boarding group procedure:

Group 1 welcomes Frontier Miles Elite Platinum and Elite Gold members, Business or Premium Bundle purchasers, and travelers who bought Board First.
Groups 2 and 3 cover Economy Bundle customers and those with carry-on bags, giving most passengers with add-ons a head start to secure overhead space.
Group 4 prioritizes Frontier Miles Elite Silver members, Frontier Airlines World Mastercard^® cardholders, priority boarding buyers, and those seated in premium or exit rows not already included.
Group 5 includes other Frontier Miles members.
Groups 6 and 7 handle basic fare customers:
- Group 6: Rear half of the cabin
- Group 7: Front half of the cabin

Expanding to 7 boarding groups may feel minor, but it’s a smart move. Separating basic fare passengers by cabin location should speed things up and reduce gate congestion — a minor efficiency tweak that travelers will likely notice immediately.

Moreover, Elite Platinum and Elite Gold members, along with those who purchase Business or Premium Bundles or Board First, will board in Group 1 — right after Elite Diamond members and preboarding.

“Flying with Frontier just became an even more seamless experience. Our new boarding groups are designed to reward our most loyal customers and enhance the overall travel experience for everyone,” said Bobby Schroeter, Frontier’s chief commercial officer.

Hot Tip:

Check your boarding group before the gate opens. Knowing exactly where you fall can help you line up strategically and avoid the rush.

Final Thoughts

Frontier continues to innovate in the ultra-low-cost space, showing that budget carriers can still prioritize efficiency and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a basic fare flyer or a Frontier Miles elite member, the expanded boarding groups and new seating options should make navigating the gate less hectic — and more predictable — than ever before.