Frontier Airlines ATL Terminal operates out of Concourse D in the North Terminal of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Frontier is a low-cost airline that offers affordable flights from Atlanta to various domestic locations. Passengers must register at the North Terminal, go through security, and enter Concourse D in order to find Frontier's gates. There are restaurants, stores, and charging stations on the concourse. Customers using Frontier Airlines should be aware that there are fees associated with checked baggage and that booking online in advance will result in a reduction in airport taxes. The terminal offers excellent connections to Atlanta's downtown via MARTA and other transit options.
Overview Frontier Airlines is a low-cost carrier based in the United States, known for offering budget-friendly fares for domestic and international travel. Founded in 1994, the airline is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, and operates flights to over 100 destinations across the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. With its focus on affordable travel, Frontier offers a no-frills flying experience, with optional services such as seat selection, baggage, and onboard refreshments available for an additional fee. Despite being a low-cost carrier, Frontier is popular for its widespread route network and competitive pricing.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), one of the busiest airports in the world, Frontier Airlines operates a significant number of domestic routes, connecting Atlanta with major U.S. cities. Atlanta, Georgia, is a key hub for many airlines, given its central location in the southeastern United States, and Frontier takes advantage of this by providing passengers with cost-effective options to fly in and out of the city.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), commonly referred to as Atlanta Airport, is the primary airport serving the Atlanta metropolitan area. It is the busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger numbers, handling over 100 million passengers annually. Located about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of downtown Atlanta, ATL serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. The airport is a critical hub for several airlines, including Delta Air Lines, but it also accommodates low-cost carriers like Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.
The airport is spread across two terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal (also known as Concourse F). The domestic terminal is divided into two sections: Terminal South (T gates), which serves Delta Air Lines, and Terminal North (A, B, C, D, and E gates), where other domestic carriers, including Frontier Airlines, operate.
Frontier Airlines at ATL: Terminal and Concourse Information
Frontier Airlines operates out of the North Terminal at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, specifically using Concourse D for its arrivals and departures. Concourse D is dedicated to domestic flights and is well-equipped with the facilities and services needed for low-cost carriers like Frontier.
Here’s a breakdown of the various aspects of Frontier Airlines' operations at Concourse D:
Check-in and Bag Drop:
Frontier Airlines offers a variety of check-in options for passengers. Travelers can check in online through the Frontier mobile app or website, allowing them to select seats, purchase additional baggage, and print or download their boarding passes. Alternatively, passengers can use the self-service kiosks available in the North Terminal to print their boarding passes and bag tags before proceeding to the bag drop counter for checked luggage.
Frontier encourages passengers to arrive at least two hours before their domestic flight departure time to ensure enough time for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines charges for both checked baggage and carry-on luggage. Passengers who purchase baggage services online in advance will pay lower fees than those paying at the airport. Frontier allows passengers to bring one personal item, such as a small backpack or purse, for free.
Security Screening:
After completing the check-in process, passengers will proceed to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint. Atlanta Airport’s security screening process is generally efficient, but given the volume of passengers passing through the airport each day, it is advisable to allow extra time during peak travel hours.
For passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, expedited security lanes are available to help streamline the screening process.
Concourse D Amenities and Services:
Concourse D at ATL offers a range of amenities for passengers flying with Frontier Airlines. These include a variety of dining options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants, along with coffee shops and grab-and-go kiosks for those looking for a quick bite before boarding.
Passengers will also find several retail shops selling travel essentials, electronics, books, and souvenirs. Charging stations are available throughout the concourse, allowing travelers to recharge their devices while waiting for their flights.
Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, including in Concourse D, ensuring passengers can stay connected while waiting for their flights.
Boarding Gates and Procedures:
Frontier Airlines typically operates from gates in the mid-to-lower range of Concourse D. Passengers should check their boarding passes or the flight information screens located throughout the concourse for specific gate assignments.
Boarding typically begins 30 to 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Frontier operates a zone-based boarding process, with priority boarding available for passengers who have purchased additional services, such as seat selection or carry-on baggage.
Passengers who have not pre-purchased carry-on baggage may be required to gate-check their bags, as Frontier strictly enforces its baggage policy to minimize overhead bin space issues.
Baggage Policy for Frontier Airlines
As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines has a unique baggage policy, and passengers need to be aware of the potential fees associated with their luggage:
Personal Item:
- Passengers are allowed one personal item for free. This item must fit under the seat in front of them and should not exceed the dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Examples include a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag.
Carry-On Baggage:
- Carry-on baggage is not included in Frontier’s basic fare and must be purchased separately. Carry-on bags must fit in the overhead bins and cannot exceed the size limit of 24 x 16 x 10 inches and a maximum weight of 35 pounds.
Checked Baggage:
- Checked baggage fees vary based on the route, booking time, and the number of bags. Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds in weight and 62 linear inches in size. Passengers are encouraged to pre-book their checked luggage online to avoid higher fees at the airport.
Excess Baggage Fees:
- Frontier charges additional fees for bags that exceed the weight limit (50 pounds) or the size limit (62 linear inches). Overweight bags (51 to 100 pounds) and oversized bags (more than 62 linear inches) incur significant extra fees.
Inflight Experience on Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is known for its "a la carte" pricing model, where passengers pay for the services and amenities they want, rather than paying for bundled services. The airline offers three seating options: Standard Seats, Stretch Seats (with extra legroom), and Exit Row Seats. Passengers can select their seats for an additional fee or be assigned seats for free at check-in.
During the flight, food and beverages are not included in the fare, but snacks, meals, and drinks are available for purchase. Frontier also offers a range of bundles that include seat selection, baggage, and priority boarding for passengers who want a more convenient experience.
Post-Arrival and Ground Transportation at ATL
Upon arrival at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Frontier Airlines passengers will disembark at Concourse D. After deplaning, travelers can follow the signs to baggage claim, which is located in the North Terminal. The airport's baggage claim area is efficient, and passengers can expect to retrieve their luggage within a reasonable time.
For those needing transportation from the airport, there are several options:
Airport Shuttles and MARTA:
- The airport is connected to downtown Atlanta by the MARTA rail system, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach the city center. The MARTA station is located inside the Domestic Terminal, easily accessible from Concourse D via the airport’s Plane Train or walking tunnels.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services:
- Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available outside the North Terminal. Passengers can follow the signs to the designated pick-up areas for these services.
Rental Cars:
- A range of car rental services are available at the Rental Car Center, accessible via the airport’s SkyTrain.
Conclusion
Frontier Airlines offers a budget-friendly travel option for passengers flying to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Operating out of Concourse D in the North Terminal, the airline provides essential services while allowing travelers to customize their experience by purchasing additional services like seat selection, baggage, and inflight amenities. Though Frontier’s model is based on affordability, the airline ensures a seamless and efficient travel experience for passengers flying through one of the world’s busiest airports.