Frontier Airlines Exits Palm Springs Airport in Hours—What’s Next?

URGENT UPDATE: Frontier Airlines is set to cease all operations at Palm Springs International Airport in just a few hours, effective November 29, 2023. This sudden decision is a significant shift for the busy airport, which serves thousands of travelers each month, particularly those heading to the vibrant Coachella Valley.

The budget airline announced last week that it would no longer provide services to this key airport, attributing the move to changing travel demand and ongoing adjustments within the aviation industry. Frontier’s flights to Denver and San Francisco will be discontinued, raising concerns for travelers reliant on these routes.

Despite the withdrawal, a spokesperson for Frontier assured that Palm Springs International Airport will maintain its nonstop destinations. “We are not losing any nonstop routes following Frontier’s decision,” the spokesperson stated. Other carriers, including United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, will continue to serve the routes to DEN and SFO year-round, ensuring travelers have options to reach their destinations without interruption.

Passenger traffic at Palm Springs continues to surge, with a 5 percent growth year-to-date compared to last year. The airport remains optimistic about its future air service offerings, even as Frontier shifts its focus to new routes across the country.

In a bold move, Frontier recently launched a nonstop service from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Additionally, starting in January 2024, travelers can expect new routes from New Jersey, Florida, Illinois, Utah, and Arizona. Notably, a nonstop service will connect Newark Liberty International Airport to Orlando International Airport beginning on January 21, followed by a twice-weekly service from Salt Lake City International Airport to Tucson International Airport starting on January 22.

In February 2024, Frontier is set to announce further connections, including new routes between Miami International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, and from Orlando International Airport to Pensacola International Airport. To celebrate these new offerings, Frontier will introduce introductory fares starting as low as $29.

“This expansion reflects our commitment to providing affordable and convenient travel options,” said Josh Flyr, vice president of network and operations design at Frontier Airlines. “With our ultra-low fares and enhanced customer experience, we are excited to show travelers why Frontier is becoming America’s low-cost airline of choice.”

As Frontier Airlines prepares to exit Palm Springs, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and explore alternative carriers to ensure their travel plans remain intact. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.