This Semi-private Jet Company Makes Luxury Air Travel As Affordable As Flying Economy

Everything you need to know about flying on semi-private air carrier JSX.

We're pretty sure absolutely no one enjoys slogging through an airport, particularly when there are long lines at check-in and security. But what if we told you there was a way to skip all that hassle? Flying on the semi-private air carrier JSX means you'll get all the conveniences of flying private — including skipping standard airport security — for prices that are often similar to (or lower than) first class on domestic flights. If you haven't yet flown with JSX, here's everything you need to know about the experience, from the airports the company serves to the in-flight benefits.

How Does JSX Work?

JSX is an air carrier that offers semi-private air travel. When it comes to booking, it's not at all different than booking a commercial flight on a major U.S. airline. JSX has a regular schedule of flights between different cities, and you book by the seat. The major difference lies in the pre-flight and in-flight experience. For starters, JSX operates out of fixed-based operators (FBOs), or private jet terminals, which means that security is not handled by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Security measures are typically invisible, so you usually don't need to get in a long line to pass your bags through an X-ray machine, then go through a metal detector or body scanner. Instead, you just speak with a check-in agent briefly and head for the lounge, which is why you only need to show up 20 to 40 minutes before your flight. Then, there's the fact that JSX flies small regional jets with all-first-class configurations, so there are no crowded and uncomfortable economy seats. The experience is more like flying private, though you (probably) won't be alone with your party on the plane.

What Aircraft Does JSX Fly?

JSX has a fleet of Embraer ERJ-135 and ERJ-145 aircraft, each of which seats 30 passengers in 1-2 and 1-1 configurations, respectively. Each spacious seat has first-class-style legroom (read: plenty of it). Passengers who book the more affordable Hop On fare will have to pay for a seat assignment, whereas those who book the All In fare can choose their seat for free.

What Is the JSX In-flight Experience Like?

Snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are provided free of charge to all passengers. There's also complimentary Starlink WiFi on board — JSX was the first air carrier to implement the service into its fleet, and it's available from the second you board to the second you land, so there's no waiting to reach 10,000 feet before it kicks in.

Where Does JSX Fly?

JSX is primarily a West Coast operator flying all across California, as well as to Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado, but the carrier is currently expanding its route network. It now flies from Westchester County (HPN) in New York to both Orlando (MCO) and Miami (MIA), as well as to cities across Texas. Dallas (DAL) even serves as something of a hub for JSX, as it connects its East and West Coast operations. JSX also flies internationally, connecting Los Angeles and Dallas to Cabo San Lucas (CSL) seasonally. Visit JSX's Where We Fly page to see the latest developments in its route network.

What Is JSX's Pet Policy?

JSX is a pet-friendly air carrier, allowing dogs and cats that can fit in an under-seat carrier to fly for free. For larger dogs up to 79 pounds, passengers can buy an adjoining seat (though your dog must sit on the floor in front of it).

What Are the Baggage Allowances on JSX?

All passengers are permitted two checked bags up to 50 pounds each, plus one personal item that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. Passengers who book an All In fare receive an additional checked bag of up to 50 pounds. There are no overhead bins on JSX aircraft, so you can't bring larger carry-on suitcases — those must be checked into the cargo hold. But rather than dropping your bags on a conveyor belt and hoping they make it through the airport and onto your aircraft, JSX staff handle your baggage directly, bringing it right to your plane. After the flight, the bags are brought out planeside for easy pick-up. (That's right, there's no waiting at baggage claim.)

How Much Does JSX Cost?

One-way fares can start as low as $179, but the price fluctuates based on the route, the day of the week, the time of day, and the fare class, among other variables. (There are just two fare classes: Hop On and All In, the latter of which includes advance seat assignments, an extra checked bag, and waived change and cancellation fees.) More typically, you can expect to pay in the $200 to $500 range for most flights. Some of the most popular routes, such as Westchester to Miami in the winter, might cost around $850 each way — or sometimes even higher.

Does JSX Partner with Other Airlines?

JSX has partnered with United and JetBlue to offer passengers some mileage awards. United MileagePlus Members will earn award miles based on a percentage of the distance flown, which is determined by fare class. (They will not, however, earn toward elite status.) Passengers who input their JetBlue TrueBlue members will receive 150 TrueBlue points per flight for Hop On fares and 250 TrueBlue points per flight for All In fares.

What Makes JSX More Convenient Than Traditional Commercial Airlines?

By choosing JSX, passengers can enjoy a hassle-free flying experience with all the comforts of private air travel — at similar prices to first-class seats on a traditional commercial airline. Passengers only need to show up about 20 minutes before their flight, and they get to skip the annoyances of full TSA security measures. Plus, small pets can travel free, alcoholic beverages are free, and checked bags are included in the fare.

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