DALLAS- JSX (XE), a public charter air carrier, is expanding its fleet with ATR 42-600 turboprops, targeting over 1,000 new US airports. Despite opposition from American Airlines (AA) and Southwest Airlines (WN), JSX’s premium service continues to grow.
After facing intense lobbying efforts and potential regulatory shutdowns, JSX is not only surviving but thriving, now introducing ATR 42-600 turboprop aircraft to serve underserved markets from private terminals across the US, including airports previously limited to private aviation.
Photo: JSXJSX Expands with ATR Turboprops
In 2023, JSX (XE) came under fire from American Airlines (AA), Southwest Airlines (WN), and the Air Line Pilots Association, which urged the US government to halt JSX operations.
Their concerns centered on JSX’s use of public charter rules under FAA Part 135, which allowed it to operate from private terminals without following all commercial airline regulations, particularly pilot licensing mandates.
Reported by View from the Wing, this opposition reached the highest levels of government, with former American Airlines CEO Doug Parker reportedly lobbying TSA Administrator Pekoske directly.
While JSX will now have to comply with new TSA requirements, such as enhanced liquid restrictions and upgraded scanners, the carrier remains operational and its business model intact.
Photo: Christopher Ebdon | FlickrNew Aircraft to Unlock 1,000 U.S. Airports
JSX currently operates Embraer 135 and 145 regional jets, serving markets primarily in California and other high-demand corridors.
Now, it’s adding the ATR 42-600 to its fleet, a move that will unlock service to over 1,000 airports across the US.
These turboprops will feature ATR’s upscale HighLine interior, 30-seat configurations, and Starlink Wi-Fi onboard.
According to JSX CEO Alex Wilcox, the ATR aircraft will give JSX access to airports that were previously exclusive to private jet owners.
He highlighted the aircraft’s quiet cabin, operational efficiency, and ability to open new, underserved regional markets. JSX was also the first airline to launch Starlink internet on commercial aircraft, reinforcing its commitment to a premium experience.
Photo: JSXOrder Details
Initially, JSX plans to lease two ATR 42-600s and has signed a letter of intent for up to 25 more aircraft, 15 firm and 10 options.
These could include either ATR 42-600s or the larger ATR 72-600s. It remains unclear whether the aircraft will be newly manufactured or sourced from the used market. Speculation points to possible acquisitions of former Silver Airways turboprops, though availability is uncertain.
While the letter of intent signals interest, it does not constitute a binding order. Given JSX’s previous announcements involving electric aircraft, some from now defunct manufacturers, the turboprop expansion may serve as a more realistic hedge or replacement for those future plans.
Photo: By Kees08 – Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84624650Strategic Growth
JSX had previously announced plans to add hundreds of electric aircraft to its fleet, supporting the Biden administration’s sustainability goals.
However, with delays in certification and some manufacturers exiting the market, ATR turboprops represent a practical and immediate alternative.
These aircraft not only align with JSX’s existing private-terminal model but also broaden access to regional destinations where operating jets is either impractical or too costly. The expansion could enable JSX to grow its presence in the Northeast, Midwest, and other underserved parts of the country, beyond its California stronghold.
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