Ep 11: The End of Airline Junk Fees?

In this episode, the hosts discuss recent changes in the U.S. airline industry regarding fees and regulations. Frontier Airlines announced their "New Frontier" initiative which includes eliminating change and cancellation fees when purchasing fare bundles, being more transparent with pricing, and improving customer support. This comes as the Department of Transportation cracks down on "junk fees" and pushes for greater transparency from airlines.

Frontier's New Bundles

Frontier introduced new fare bundles - Economy, Premium, and Business. The bundles come with different seat selections, baggage allowances, and no change or cancellation fees. To get no change/cancellation fees, you must purchase a bundle. The Business bundle gets Frontier's new "Upfront Plus" seats, which are similar to European-style business class with extra legroom and middle seats blocked.

Change/Cancellation Fees

Frontier is now emphasizing the no change/cancellation fees, but you only get this if you purchase a bundle. Spirit also just changed their policy - no fees if you change/cancel 60+ days out, $119 fee within 6 days. Spirit now has one of the best cancellation policies in the U.S. airline industry.

DOT and "Junk Fees"

These changes are in response to pressure from the U.S. DOT to eliminate "junk fees" and be more transparent. The DOT wants fees for bags, seat selections, changes/cancellations to be disclosed upfront along with airfare. Refunds for cancellations must also be processed faster. This applies to all airlines. The legacy carriers have filed a lawsuit against this, claiming it is unnecessary and will confuse consumers.

Wine Break

The hosts try the sparkling wine Neon from Mawby Winery in Michigan. It's made from the hybrid grape Cayuga White and uses the Charmat method. They discuss the winemaking process and flavors.

12 Hours in Iceland

The hosts share about a 12-hour layover they had in Iceland. They got a rental car and toured the Reykjanes Peninsula. Highlights included seeing the landscape, geysers, and having the "best fish in the world." They regret not seeing the Blue Lagoon but look forward to returning to see more of Iceland.