JSX Launches Premium Turboprop Flights in California

JSX, the innovative public charter airline known for its semi-private flying experience, is set to introduce its first-ever ATR turboprop aircraft to the skies of California this November. This new offering is designed to cater to premium travelers who seek a more exclusive and convenient flying experience.

CEO Alex Wilcox announced the upcoming launch during an ATR event in Washington, D.C., although specific routes within California have yet to be revealed. The ATR-42-600 aircraft will operate on flights lasting up to two hours, featuring an all-premium configuration with just 30 seats, ensuring ample space and comfort for passengers.

Wilcox hinted at potential controversy surrounding the airports that will be served by these new turboprops. JSX has faced legal challenges in expanding its operations at various airports, including John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, and Westchester County Airport in New York. Despite these hurdles, the airline is committed to providing travelers with unique access to destinations.

Future plans for the ATRs include routes to Telluride Regional Airport in Colorado and Truckee Tahoe Airport in California, the latter of which currently lacks commercial air service. While Wilcox did not disclose further details about these routes, JSX is known for its focus on nonstop flights from smaller, more accessible airports to popular destinations, such as the route from Southern California to Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport.

JSX operates under a public charter certification, which allows it to offer flights with up to 30 seats at a more competitive price point than larger regional carriers. The airline has attracted investments from major players like JetBlue, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines and has partnered with these airlines to enhance its service offerings. In July, JSX also launched its loyalty program, Club JSX, further solidifying its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Currently, JSX’s fleet consists solely of Embraer ERJ regional jets. The introduction of ATR-42s is expected to open new markets while reducing operational costs. Wilcox explained that the turboprop aircraft require shorter runways, consume less fuel, and can serve a greater number of airports compared to the airline’s existing jets. Alexis Vidal, chief commercial officer of ATR, noted that turboprops are approximately 30% cheaper to operate than traditional 50-seat regional jets.

A key question remains: will U.S. travelers embrace turboprops as readily as they have regional jets? Historically, turboprop aircraft were a staple of U.S. regional fleets, but they lost ground to faster, larger regional jets in the 2000s. Rick Leach, CEO of GoJet Airlines, acknowledged this shift, stating that modern turboprops often feature advanced technology that can rival regional jets.

The last major U.S. airline to operate turboprops was Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines, which retired its Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 fleet in January 2023. Wilcox humorously referenced St. Barts, a luxury destination served exclusively by turboprops, to suggest that travelers may be more open to flying them than perceived.

JSX is taking a cautious approach with its new ATR fleet, initially leasing just two aircraft previously operated by Silver Airways. These planes will begin service in November, with plans to add two more in the first quarter of 2026. Wilcox emphasized the importance of proving that customers will choose turboprop flights, citing the convenience of closer airport locations as a significant factor in their decision-making.

If the initial flights prove successful, JSX may finalize a letter of intent for up to 25 additional ATRs, significantly expanding its reach across the U.S. With the potential to serve hundreds of additional airports, the turboprop initiative could reshape JSX’s operational landscape.

As JSX prepares for the launch of its ATR-42s, the airline is focused on demonstrating their viability in the semi-private, point-to-point market it serves. With a commitment to superior customer experience and innovative travel solutions, JSX is poised to redefine air travel for premium passengers in the United States.