Paris, June 17 - Frontier Airlines, a leading ultra-low-cost carrier based in Denver, Colorado, announced a significant partnership with Pratt & Whitney, a division of RTX, to power 91 Airbus A321neo aircraft with Pratt & Whitney’s Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines. The announcement, made on the opening day of the Paris Air Show 2025, marks a pivotal step in Frontier’s fleet expansion and modernization strategy, reinforcing its commitment to operating one of the most fuel-efficient and environmentally sustainable fleets in the United States. The first of these aircraft is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026, and the agreement includes a long-term EngineWise Comprehensive service contract for engine maintenance, ensuring operational reliability and cost predictability for the airline.
.gif)
This latest order brings Frontier’s total commitment to 235 GTF-powered A320neo family aircraft, including those already delivered, solidifying its position as the operator of the largest and youngest A320neo family fleet in the U.S. The A321neo, a stretched version of the A320neo, offers increased capacity and improved economics, making it an ideal choice for Frontier’s high-density, low-fare model. The GTF engines, known for their innovative geared design, deliver up to 20% better fuel efficiency compared to previous-generation engines, significantly reducing operating costs and carbon emissions. This aligns with Frontier’s goal of being “America’s Greenest Airline,” a commitment underscored by its 2024 recognition as the North American Environmental Sustainability Airline of the Year by the Centre for Aviation.
NEWS: @FrontierAirlines selects Pratt & Whitney GTF engines to power 91 @Airbus A320neo family aircraft. More: https://t.co/VxwmLkBodR#PAS25 pic.twitter.com/i171tqXMaZ
— RTX (@RTX_News) June 16, 2025
The GTF engines selected for these aircraft will incorporate the GTF Advantage configuration, the next evolution of Pratt & Whitney’s engine technology. This upgraded version provides higher takeoff thrust, enhanced fuel efficiency, and extended time on wing, meaning fewer maintenance events and longer operational periods. These improvements are particularly valuable for low-cost carriers like Frontier, which prioritize maximizing aircraft utilization and minimizing downtime. The GTF Advantage’s advanced hot section, featuring optimized cooling techniques and improved coatings, enhances durability, with Pratt & Whitney recently introducing a Hot Section Plus (HS+) upgrade that promises to nearly double engine time on wing for A320neo operators.
Frontier’s longstanding relationship with Pratt & Whitney, which began at the airline’s inception, has been a cornerstone of its operational success. The GTF engine’s proven performance since Frontier joined the GTF family four years ago has instilled confidence in this expanded commitment. The EngineWise maintenance agreement further strengthens this partnership, providing Frontier with access to Pratt & Whitney’s technical expertise, fleet data, and business intelligence to optimize maintenance planning. As Frontier continues its brand transformation, dubbed “The New Frontier,” this investment in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft and engines underscores its dedication to delivering affordable fares while maintaining an exceptional travel experience. This strategic move positions Frontier to meet growing passenger demand with a cost-effective, sustainable fleet, while reinforcing Pratt & Whitney’s role as a leader in single-aisle aircraft propulsion. With deliveries set to begin in late 2026, these GTF-powered A321neos will play a pivotal role in Frontier’s growth trajectory, supporting its mission to connect more travelers across its extensive network.