Navigating budget airlines can often feel like walking a tightrope, balancing cost savings with potential inconveniences. For a recent trip potentially heading from the John Wayne area to SFO, the allure of a Frontier Airlines flight quickly turned into a baggage check-in battle, revealing hidden fees and frustrating customer service. What was intended to be an economical journey became a lesson in airline manipulation and a stark warning for anyone considering Frontier, especially for routes like John Wayne To Sfo.
The ordeal began innocently enough with the online check-in process. The Frontier app, in what felt like a deceptive maneuver, presented the “business package” as the only viable option for adding a checked bag. This package, boasting two checked bags per person, seemed unavoidable if baggage was needed. Despite only requiring one checked bag for a potential John Wayne to SFO trip, the system pushed towards purchasing six bags in total for three travelers – a clear case of upselling gone wrong.
Arriving at the airport, the baggage drop-off line was unexpectedly long and unmanned. Time ticked by, anxiety grew about missing the flight, and still no Frontier representative was present. Reaching out to Frontier’s customer service proved futile; phone lines went unanswered, leaving no option but to contact the airport directly. A page was put out for a baggage attendant – a step no passenger should have to take just to check in luggage for a flight, especially when trying to make a connection from somewhere like John Wayne to SFO.
When an attendant finally arrived, the situation was explained: the forced purchase of six checked bags when only three were needed. The promise of a refund for the unnecessary bags was offered, directing the issue back to Frontier’s elusive customer service channels. The online chat became a maze of automated responses, eventually leading to a live agent who, initially, offered no resolution. Persistence was key, finally resulting in a “customer service ticket” and the offer of a flight credit. However, the frustration had reached its peak. The exorbitant cost of almost $500 for checking just three bags, coupled with the manipulative booking process and unhelpful customer service, left a lasting negative impression. A flight credit felt like an insult, a forced tie to an airline sworn off for future travel, particularly for any routes, including John Wayne to SFO.
This experience serves as a cautionary tale for anyone considering Frontier Airlines for their travels, especially routes like John Wayne to SFO where smooth, reliable service is often prioritized. The promise of budget fares can quickly evaporate when faced with unexpected fees and a customer service system that seems designed to deflect rather than resolve issues. Avoid Frontier and protect yourself from what feels less like budget travel and more like systematic overcharging and manipulation.
