JSX, the public charter air carrier, has announced an exciting new development in its operations, revealing plans to introduce turboprop service with the ATR 42-600 aircraft starting in late 2025.
JSX primarily operates point-to-point flights within the United States using 30-seat regional jets. The company has gained attention for its unique service model, which emphasizes a ‘business class’ experience while operating out of private terminals.
Despite claims of offering a semi-private experience, some observers criticize this categorization as an oxymoron, given JSX’s status as a charter operator rather than a traditional airline under Part 121 regulations. This allows JSX to bypass several standard airline regulations, marking its business model as both controversial and innovative.
Currently, JSX operates flights with Embraer ERJ-135 and ERJ-145 aircraft, but the addition of turboprop service represents an evolution of the company’s offerings. JSX’s new aircraft will feature a modern ATR HighLine interior, boasting 30 premium seats arranged in a 1-1 configuration, catering to a clientele looking for comfort and exclusivity.
The introduction of the ATR 42-600 marks a significant milestone, as it signifies ATR’s entry into the United States’ public charter market. JSX CEO Alex Wilcox expressed enthusiasm about this development, stating, “The ATR -600 series will bring over 1,000 new airports into reach for JSX, expanding access to reliable public charter flights across the great United States.
Many of these airports were, until now, reserved only for those who had the means to fly private. I am confident that our Customers will love the ATR product, not just for the variety of new routes it allows JSX to operate, but also for its quiet cabin and comfortable seating.
When paired with our award-winning JSX hospitality, the addition of the ATR marks an innovative step forward in our company’s unyielding mission to increase the safety, speed, and convenience of air travel that moves our country forward.”
The decision to integrate turboprops aligns well with JSX’s business model, which has previously relied on jets for its regional services.
Historically, turboprops have seen a decline in operation in the United States as airlines shifted to faster jet options. However, the ATR HighLine concept aims to reclaim a niche in the market by delivering a comfortable and economical choice for short and thin routes.
This is particularly relevant for JSX, as the company can leverage the ATR’s operational advantages on shorter distances, despite turboprops traditionally being less speed-efficient than jets.
As JSX operates a fleet comprised predominantly of nearly 50 jets, questions arise about the potential scale of this initiative. The operating economics of the ATR fleet compared to the current Embraer jets, which are averaging nearly 25 years old, form an area of interest for analysts and industry watchers.
While JSX has not disclosed specific details regarding the source of these aircraft—whether they will be newly acquired or refurbished from existing operators like Silver Airways—it certainly indicates a strategic growth phase for the airline. As Silver Airways has recently ceased operations, the timing could suggest that JSX is poised to absorb some of the market once occupied by such carriers with the ATR 42-600.
As the U.S. public charter space evolves, JSX appears to be positioning itself favorably within this segment with an initiative that combines the resurgence of turboprop service and a focus on premium passenger experience.
With the planned operation of the ATR 42-600s, JSX is set to further expand its reach and potentially redefine convenient air travel across a wider array of destinations.
In conclusion, JSX is making a significant leap by venturing into turboprop operations. Starting in late 2025, the lease of two ATR 42-600 aircraft will pave the way for new routes and more accessible public charter flights.
This move seems to strategically align with JSX’s ongoing mission to enhance customer experience while tackling the challenges of domestic air travel. The future may hold much promise for JSX with this innovative approach.
image source from：onemileatatime
