Frontier Airlines Orders 91 Additional A321neo Aircraft, Tripling Size by 2029

Rhea-AI Summary

Frontier Airlines (NASDAQ: ULCC) has announced a significant fleet expansion by ordering 91 A321neo aircraft from Airbus, part of a larger order within the Indigo Partners portfolio. This move aims to triple the airline's size by 2029, further solidifying its position as America's greenest airline with an average fuel efficiency of 43% greater than competitors. The new aircraft are set for delivery from 2023 to 2029, increasing the total fleet to 272 aircraft by the end of the period. This expansion supports Frontier's commitment to affordable and eco-friendly travel.

Positive

• Ordering 91 additional A321neo aircraft enhances fleet size and operational capacity.
• Expected average fuel efficiency of 119 MPG per seat supports sustainability goals.
• Plans to triple fleet size by 2029 indicate strong growth potential.
• Current fuel efficiency is 43% better compared to other U.S. airlines.

Negative

• None.

Cements Position as America’s Greenest Airline with New A321s Achieving 119MPG Per Seat

DENVER, Nov. 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Frontier Airlines (NASDAQ: ULCC) today announced a major fleet expansion with an order for 91 additional A321neo aircraft from leading aircraft manufacturer Airbus as part of a larger joint aircraft order across the Indigo Partners portfolio.

“These additional A321neo aircraft will enable us to triple the size of the airline by 2029,” said Barry Biffle, president and CEO, Frontier Airlines. “We are already America’s Greenest Airline with an existing fleet that is 43 percent more fuel efficient, on average per seat, than other U.S. carriers. The A321neo is expected to deliver nearly 120 ASMs per gallon, further advancing our industry-leading environmental efforts while debunking the myth that being green is an expensive investment only achievable in the future.”

The new aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2023 and 2029. They are in addition to Frontier’s existing orderbook of 143 aircraft to be delivered between 2022 and 2028, bringing the airline’s total aircraft on order to 234. By the end of 2029, Frontier’s total fleet size is expected to include 272 aircraft.

"Frontier has truly capitalized on the efficiency of the A321neo to offer passengers a flying experience that is both affordable and also kinder to the environment," said C. Jeffrey Knittel, chairman and CEO of Airbus Americas.

Frontier currently has 112 aircraft in its fleet. Of the 234 new aircraft on order, 76 are A320neo aircraft and 158 are A321neo aircraft. Eighteen of the A320neo aircraft include conversion rights to A321XLR aircraft. The Company currently flies to more than 100 destinations within the U.S., Mexico, Caribbean and Latin America and is undergoing significant expansion within both its domestic and international route networks.

About Frontier Airlines:
Frontier Airlines (NASDAQ: ULCC) is committed to “Low Fares Done Right.” Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, the company operates more than 100 A320 family aircraft and has the largest A320neo fleet in the U.S. The use of these aircraft, Frontier’s seating configuration, weight-saving tactics and baggage process have all contributed to the airline’s average of 43 percent fuel savings compared to other U.S. airlines (fuel savings is based on Frontier Airlines’ 2019 fuel consumption per seat-mile compared to the weighted average of major U.S. airlines), which makes Frontier the most fuel-efficient U.S. airline. Frontier is also committed to families enabling children 14 years and younger to fly free through the airline’s Discount Den travel club on qualifying flights. With more than 230 new Airbus planes on order, Frontier will continue to grow to deliver on the mission of providing affordable travel across America.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/196d6a18-ad0c-4927-baa8-0f4124123599

FAQ

What is the significance of Frontier Airlines' recent aircraft order?

Frontier Airlines ordered 91 A321neo aircraft to expand its fleet, aiming to triple its size by 2029 and enhance fuel efficiency, reinforcing its position as America’s greenest airline.

How does the new A321neo aircraft impact Frontier's environmental initiatives?

The new A321neo aircraft is expected to deliver nearly 120 ASMs per gallon, further advancing Frontier's industry-leading environmental efforts.

What are Frontier Airlines' growth plans through 2029?

Frontier aims to increase its fleet size to 272 aircraft by 2029, with a total of 234 aircraft on order, including the recent order of 91 A321neo aircraft.

What is the current fuel efficiency of Frontier Airlines compared to its competitors?

Frontier Airlines currently boasts a fuel efficiency that is, on average, 43% greater than that of other major U.S. airlines.

When will the new A321neo aircraft be delivered to Frontier Airlines?

The delivery of the new A321neo aircraft is scheduled between 2023 and 2029.