Source: The Points Guy
Summary
JSX, a boutique airline, introduced its first ATR turboprop in December, with CEO Alex Wilcox expressing cautious optimism. The airline, known for upscale convenience, offers 1-1 seating and Starlink Wi-Fi on its Embraer jets. Despite a stigma around turboprops, JSX reports high customer satisfaction. Delays in ATR deployment affected plans for new routes to Telluride and Truckee. JSX is also exploring hybrid-electric Heart Aerospace planes, with potential delivery by the early 2030s.
Our Reading
The escape is carefully planned.
JSX offers turboprops with 30 seats, flying from Santa Monica to Las Vegas, Napa, Scottsdale, and Oakland.
Delays in ATR deployment pushed new routes to 2027, tied to local restrictions on jets.
Club JSX rewards members with points redeemable on all flights, including ATRs.
The future of travel is electric, but only if the planes arrive on time.
Author: Evan Null
JSX’s Turboprop Experiment
JSX’s ATR turboprop entered service in December, with CEO Alex Wilcox expressing cautious optimism. The airline, known for upscale convenience, offers 1-1 seating and Starlink Wi-Fi on its Embraer jets. Despite a stigma around turboprops, JSX reports high customer satisfaction.
ATR versus ERJ
JSX began testing ATR turboprops against its Embraer jets, with flight times slightly longer on the turboprop. The airline plans to use the ATR on routes where jets are restricted, such as Telluride and Truckee. Delays in ATR deployment pushed new routes to 2027.
JSX’s Future Heart
JSX has committed to 50 hybrid-electric Heart Aerospace ES-36 planes, with potential delivery by the early 2030s. The ES-36 offers lower operating costs and zero emissions if powered by solar. The plane can fly nonstop from Santa Monica to Telluride, a route currently served by turboprops.
Customer Satisfaction
JSX’s ATRs have a net promoter score 2.5 points higher than its Embraer jets, according to ATR. The airline plans to expand ATR use once delays are resolved. The loyalty program allows members to earn and redeem points on all flights, including ATRs.
Industry Partnerships
Heart Aerospace has commitments from Air Canada and United Airlines for the ES-36. JSX’s CEO, Alex Wilcox, remains confident in the plane’s development, citing a successful first flight in August. The ES-36 will seat up to 36 passengers, but JSX can only configure 30 seats under its current charter model.
