JSX Airlines Takes Flight with New Turboprop Fleet

JSX, the semi-private charter carrier, is betting on the resurgence of turboprop technology to redefine regional air travel. The airline is introducing a new fleet of ATR 42-600 turboprop planes, aiming to connect cities previously underserved by jet aircraft. But where will these new planes take passengers?

Silicon Valley to Silicon Beach: A Key Route for JSX

JSX CEO Alex Wilcox has identified a prime route: between San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) in Northern California and Santa Monica Airport (SMO) in Southern California. This connection would link Silicon Valley with the vibrant tech hub of “Silicon Beach.” However, securing space at SJC, which operates from private terminals, presents a challenge. An alternative being considered is Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), where JSX already operates.

Current Routes and Expansion Plans

Currently, JSX’s sole ATR 42-600 is serving the popular route between Santa Monica (SMO) and Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) daily. Service to Scottsdale Airport (SCF) in Arizona began on January 22nd, and two additional daily LAS flights were added on February 2nd, coinciding with the arrival of JSX’s second ATR. The airline plans to add two more ATRs by this summer, bringing the total fleet to four.

A Premium Experience with Modern Amenities

The ATR 42-600s are configured with 30 seats in a comfortable 2-1 premium layout, similar to JSX’s Embraer ERJ-135 regional jets. Passengers can enjoy USB-A and USB-C charging ports at every seat, and high-speed Starlink inflight Wi-Fi connectivity is expected to be available starting around February. Starlink is revolutionizing in-flight connectivity.

Loyalty Programs and Earning Points

Travelers can earn points on JSX flights through the Club JSX loyalty program, as well as through United MileagePlus or JetBlue TrueBlue. However, it’s important to note that MileagePlus and TrueBlue members cannot currently redeem points for flights on the new ATR aircraft.

Beyond California: New Destinations on the Horizon

With the addition of more ATRs, JSX aims to launch service to Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) in Colorado from SMO, and to Dallas Love Field (DAL). These routes are ideal for the ATR’s capabilities, allowing JSX to serve airports with shorter runways that jets cannot access. According to Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, “Markets between 300 and 500 nautical miles… this is where we are better.”

The Turboprop Comeback and JSX’s Experiment

Turboprops have largely disappeared from U.S. skies since the rise of regional jets. JSX’s decision to add ATRs, even with idle ERJs available, is a deliberate experiment. “The reason we’re running the experiment is to run the experiment,” says Wilcox. Early indicators, measured by net promoter scores, are positive, suggesting passengers are enjoying the experience. If successful, JSX has an option to purchase up to 25 more ATR planes.

JSX’s Fleet Expansion: A Balanced Approach

JSX also plans to add six ERJ-145s with its standard 30-seat premium layout this year, demonstrating a balanced approach to fleet expansion. The airline is committed to providing a premium travel experience while exploring the benefits of turboprop technology.

Image Credit: Edward Russell (@mrerussell) on Instagram