JSX Boosts Turboprop Fleet After Strong Passenger Response

Boutique carrier JSX has rolled out its first ATR 42 turboprops, reporting a higher net promoter score than its Embraer jets. The airline plans to operate four ATR 42‑600s with a 30‑seat, 2‑1 layout by summer, but supply‑chain and maintenance delays have pushed new mountain routes to Telluride and Truckee Tahoe until at least summer 2027. JSX currently flies ATRs from Santa Monica to Las Vegas, Napa, Scottsdale, and Oakland, with the turboprop taking about ten minutes longer than the jet on the Burbank‑Las Vegas route. CEO Alex Wilcox also secured a deposit for 50 Heart Aerospace ES‑36 hybrid‑electric turboprops, which could seat up to 36 passengers and fly 745 miles, potentially entering service in the early 2030s if certification is achieved by 2031. The ES‑36 offers 40% lower operating costs and zero emissions with the right infrastructure, and has commitments from Air Canada and United Airlines.