Frontier Airlines defers 54 Airbus deliveries to 2029 and beyond
Low-cost American carrier Frontier Airlines has revised its Airbus aircraft delivery schedule, now deferring 54 units (originally due between 2025 and 2028) to 2029-2031.
As of 30 June, Frontier had a fleet of 148 Airbus single-aisle aircraft, all financed through operating leases that will expire between 2025 and 2036. It took delivery of six A321neos during the second quarter of 2024, increasing its fuel-efficient A320-neo family aircraft fleet to 80%; the highest percentage of all major US carriers and earning it the title of America’s most fuel-efficient airline.
However, Frontier and Airbus have now executed a binding arrangement for 54 of the airline’s additional 198 aircraft commitments (due to be delivered through until 2029) to be deferred to 2029 and beyond, lowering upcoming fleet inductions and reducing its financing needs. Roughly half of the 42 and 41 aircraft originally slated to arrive in 2025 will now be delivered to the original timeline.
“While consumer travel demand has remained resilient on peak days of the week, post-pandemic travel patterns have compelled us to concentrate our flying on peak days,” explained Frontier CEO Barry Biffle. Although capacity grew by 13% during the quarter, Frontier only saw a 1% increase in total operating revenue (rising to $973 million).
