What if we told you that you could enjoy the benefits of private air travel without the hefty price tag? Welcome to the world of JSX, a game-changer in the aviation industry that offers a semi-private flying experience. This innovative air carrier is working to bridge the gap between commercial and private travel, providing passengers with the luxury and convenience of private jets at a fraction of the cost of chartering a plane.
Let’s dive into the details of JSX, its impact on major commercial airlines, and whether this unique travel option is truly worth considering the next time you fly.
JSX: The details
JSX, also known as JetSuite X, Inc., is an American air carrier operating in the United States and Mexico. Describing itself as a “hop-on jet service,” JSX offers convenience that rivals traditional commercial flights. As a public charter, JSX doesn’t directly operate aircraft but instead charters 30-seat Embraer regional jets, which a subsidiary manages. These jets are customized with 30 business-class seats, providing extra legroom, in-row power, and a streamlined, overhead-bin-free design.
One of the standout features of JSX is its use of fixed-base operator (FBO) terminals, which significantly enhance the passenger experience. Because of regulatory flexibility afforded to charter operators, JSX can bypass some of the more time-consuming TSA screening requirements, allowing for a seamless travel experience. Passengers can enjoy the luxury of boarding through private terminals, facing fewer lines and a shorter wait time compared to standard commercial flights. With JSX, there’s no need for an extensive check-in process, as travelers can be seated and ready for takeoff just 20 minutes after arriving at the terminal.
How much does a JSX flight cost?
JSX offers two ticket types, starting at around $300 each way: Hop On and All In. Hop On tickets are the more affordable option. While Hop On tickets are nonrefundable, cancellations provide a future flight credit minus a $50 fee. This fare includes two checked bags up to 50 pounds each.
All In tickets are pricier but offer greater flexibility. Cancellations are refundable to the original payment method, and seat selection is free. There are no fees for changes or cancellations; passengers can check three bags up to 50 pounds each.
We plugged in a few flights on jsx.com to get some pricing examples. A one-way flight from Dallas to Las Vegas costs between $650 and $1,300, depending on the departure date and the ticket type. From Salt Lake City to Burbank, the price range is $300 to just under $1,000, depending on the date and ticket.
Where does JSX fly?
JSX offers point-to-point flights to several destinations in the United States and Mexico. The airports that JSX serves include:
- Austin, Texas (AUS)
- Boca Raton, Florida (BCT)
- Burbank, California (BUR)
- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (CSL)
- Carlsbad / San Diego, California (CLD)
- Concord / Napa, California (CCR)
- Dallas, Texas (DAL)
- Denver / Boulder, Colorado (BJC)
- Destin, Florida (DSI)
- Gunnison / Crested Butte, Colorado (GUC)
- Houston, Texas (HOU)
- Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS)
- Lajitas / Big Bend, Texas (T89)
- Los Angeles, California (LAX)
- Miami / Opa-Locka, Florida (OPF)
- Monterey / Carmel, California (MRY)
- Morristown, New Jersey (MMU)
- Naples, Florida (APF)
- Oakland, California (OAK)
- Orange County / Santa Ana, California (SNA)
- Reno-Tahoe, Nevada (RNO)
- Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC)
- Scottsdale, Arizona (SCF)
- Taos, New Mexico (TSM)
- Westchester County, New York (HPN)
- West Palm Beach, Florida (PBI)
The routes that JSX flies change constantly, so keep an eye on the Where We Fly page.
How do I book a JSX flight?
Booking a JSX flight is very similar to how you book a regular commercial flight. Simply go to jsx.com and select your departure and destination cities as well as your travel dates. Browse available flights and select either the Hop On or All In ticket option. After you choose your preferred flight, you’ll be asked to enter passenger details and select any additional services. Afterward, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary.
What are the fees?
While JSX charges fewer fees than some of the larger commercial airlines, there are still some extra fees you should know about before you buy a ticket. While an All In ticket does eliminate most extra fees, it doesn’t eliminate all of them. We’ve covered cancellation fees earlier, here’s a list of the rest of JSX’s fees:
- Change fees
- $50 for Hop On tickets
- No fee for All In tickets, but the passenger must pay any fare difference
- Baggage fees
- No checked bag fee for Hop On or All In tickets; $50 charge for any bag over 50 pounds
- Booking by phone
- $20 fee per reservation per segment for both Hop On and All In tickets
- Technical booking fee
- $25 fee per reservation per segment for both Hop On and All In tickets
- Pets
- $100 per flight segment for both Hop On and All In tickets
- Seat selection
- $10 to $115 for Hop On; no charge for All In tickets
Additionally, passengers can earn TrueBlue points from JetBlue when they fly JSX. Passengers on Hop On tickets earn 150 points per flight segment and All In passengers earn 250 points per flight segment.
What JSX means for major airlines
JSX represents a significant shift in the aviation industry. However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is considering stricter safety regulations for public charter air carriers like JSX. Currently, JSX operates under less rigorous rules, which allows it to offer unique benefits like a shorter check-in time and access to private terminals.
If the FAA enforces these changes, JSX would have to adhere to the same safety standards as commercial airlines, potentially affecting their operational model. This could diminish the competitive edge by increasing costs and altering the customer experience.
Major airlines like American and Southwest, as well as pilots’ unions, have advocated for these stricter regulations, arguing that JSX exploits a regulatory gap. They believe this levels the playing field, ensuring all airlines maintain consistent safety standards. JSX, however, disputes these claims, emphasizing its commitment to safety while providing a luxurious service.
Is JSX worth it?
Whether taking a flight on JSX is worth it largely depends on your budget and travel expectations. Suppose you value a luxury travel experience and are willing to spend a bit more. In that case, JSX offers a premium service with private terminals and spacious seating, making it a worthwhile investment. They also allow pets on board for a $100 one-way fee, adding extra convenience for pet owners.
However, if you’re accustomed to flying economy and looking for the lowest fares, JSX can be relatively expensive. Additionally, the air carrier’s destination options are somewhat limited compared to major carriers as they fly to a limited number of airports.
