HOUSTON – Have you ever wanted to fly a semi-private jet but assumed it was too expensive? Yeah... us too.
KPRC 2 News Traffic Reporter Justina Latimer embarked on a public charter jet service to give viewers a first-hand experience.
What is JSX?
JSX is a semi-private air carrier that helps ease the process of booking a flight and flying. Unlike major commercial airlines, JSX only offers 30 seats, to allow customers more legroom and comfortability, and operates out of private terminals and hangers, which are usually adjacent to major airport locations. The JSX location in Houston is near Hobby Airport, located at 8919 Paul B Koonce Street.
The air carrier has been in business for eight years, starting in California and eventually moving to Dallas about six years ago.
“Very happy we landed here,” said founder and CEO, Alex Wilcox. “That gave us the base from which to really launch. The only wrinkle in the ointment is that COVID happened not too long after we got here, and so, our growth plans took a two-year pause, but now we’re back up on our feet and growing faster than ever.”
What is the in-flight experience like?
Passengers flying with JSX are treated to complimentary snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout their flight. The airline prides itself on its customer service, prioritizing attention and care for each passenger. In addition to the onboard perks, JSX also offers free WiFi and allows small pets to travel for free. Passengers can bring up to two checked bags without any additional fees.
“Small is beautiful, and with only 30 people on board, we can pay attention to our customers,” Wilcox said. “The service on board includes free drinks and free snacks, we don’t nickel-and-dime you for anything, adult beverages are included. So in addition to the free Wifi, free snacks and drinks, you get that incredible and comfortable experience.”
What makes JSX more convenient?
JSX is big on the experience, hoping to make it as hassle-free as possible. For starters, JSX operates out of private jet terminals, which means no Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Passengers only need to show up about 20 minutes ahead of their flight. They will be greeted by a check-in agent, drop off bags and then head for their lounge, which is usually equipped with charging stations and a coffee/drink bar.
Another plus, small pets can travel free, alcoholic beverages on board are free, and up to two checked bags are included in your fare.
“JSX is completely different. We are all about ease and convenience at a consumer-friendly price point. The things you can experience on JSX, you could really only get on a private jet before we arrived. You could show up at the airport 20 minutes before your flight and still get on the airplane, without breaking a sweat; you can bring whoever you like on the airplane with you, including your dogs... we allow large dogs on board that’s about 10% of our business because people want to fly with their dogs. We don’t nickel-and-dime you, we don’t charge for snacks, we don’t charge for Wifi, by the way, we have the fastest Wifi in the sky on board, and everything is included once you buy your ticket,” said Wilcox.
Where does JSX fly?
JSX’s primary destination from Houston is Dallas, but the airline also offers flights to Destin, Florida, and Las Vegas. Soon, flights to Odessa, Texas, will also be available. From Dallas, which serves as a hub for JSX, passengers can fly to various destinations including Cabo San Lucas, Los Angeles, Arizona, New Mexico, Orlando, Colorado, and Las Vegas. For a complete list of destinations, visit Where We Fly page.
“Ever since we moved to Texas we have been growing like crazy. We’ve got 48 airplanes now that fly on a daily basis, and we have another 20 airplanes in the desert that are going to refurbish and add to service in the next couple of years,” Wilcox said. “We have a great partnership with United and Jet Blue Airlines, and we are going to deepen those relationships and fly more and more frequencies to the places we go.”
How much does it cost?
When you think about the cost, you may be thinking it’s going to cost an arm and a leg. But, we did the math for you, comparing JSX prices to major airlines.
In March, a JSX flight from Houston to Dallas will cost you about $229. A United business or first-class flight comes out to $235 and a premium flight on American would cost about $265.
For JSX, the prices fluctuate based on the route, the day of the week, time of day, and other variables. Typically for a flight, customers can expect to pay $200 to $500 for most flights. Some of the more popular destinations, especially during peak season, may see a higher price.
“There is great value at JSX. We are cheaper than a private jet, although you get that private jet experience. Compared to economy, we are a little bit more expensive versus first class, JSX is often far less than what the major airlines are charging,” Wilcox said.
Also note, that if you’re willing to fly during off-peak days and seasons, you could sometimes fly JSX for less than $200. On a Monday, we found a flight from Houston to Dallas for $189.