JSX Takes Flight with New ATR Turboprops in California
JSX, the public charter airline known for its semi-private travel experience, is set to introduce its first ATR turboprops on routes within California this November. This expansion marks a significant step for the carrier, aiming to open up new markets and offer more convenient, point-to-point travel.
Key Takeaways
- JSX will debut ATR-42-600 turboprops in California in November.
- The new aircraft will feature an all-premium, 30-seat layout and serve routes up to two hours long.
- JSX plans to eventually fly the ATRs to Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) in Colorado and Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF) in California.
- The ATRs are expected to reduce operating costs and expand the number of airports JSX can serve.
Expanding Reach and Convenience
JSX CEO Alex Wilcox announced the upcoming launch of the ATR turboprops, confirming they will operate on routes up to approximately two hours in length. These aircraft will be configured in an exclusive 30-seat, all-premium layout. Wilcox indicated that the new planes would serve routes to potentially controversial locations, referencing past legal challenges JSX faced when establishing operations in places like John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Westchester County Airport (HPN).
Looking ahead, JSX intends to deploy these turboprops to Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) in Colorado and Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF) in California, the latter currently lacking commercial air service. Wilcox highlighted that the ATRs are designed to be more efficient, requiring less runway and burning less fuel, which he believes will double the number of airports JSX can serve compared to its current Embraer jet fleet.
The Turboprop Advantage
ATR’s Chief Commercial Officer, Alexis Vidal, stated that their turboprops are approximately 30% cheaper to operate than 50-seat regional jets. While turboprops were once a staple in U.S. regional aviation before being largely replaced by regional jets in the 2000s, JSX is betting on their efficiency and suitability for its operational model. Wilcox acknowledged the public’s potential perception of turboprops as older technology but expressed confidence that JSX’s premium offering and focus on convenient airport access would appeal to travelers, drawing a parallel to the types of aircraft used to access exclusive destinations like St. Barts.
A Measured Rollout
JSX is adopting a cautious approach to integrating the ATRs into its fleet. The initial phase involves two leased ATR-42s, previously operated by Silver Airways. An additional two leased aircraft are slated to join the fleet in the first quarter of 2026. Wilcox emphasized the need to first prove customer acceptance of turboprops in their specific market before committing to a larger order. If successful, JSX could finalize a letter of intent for up to 25 new ATR aircraft, further expanding its network to hundreds of additional airports.
Key Takeaways
- JSX to debut new ATR turboprops in California, The Points Guy.
