Air carrier JSX has applied to begin operations at Santa Monica Airport, proposing to use environmentally friendly turboprop aircraft to serve regional destinations while the airport remains open.
The Dallas-based company submitted its application Thursday, seeking approval to launch daily flights in 2025 using the ATR 42-600, a fuel-efficient turboprop aircraft designed with advanced noise-reduction technology.
JSX plans to operate the service during regular airport hours, targeting Santa Monica residents and visitors with connections to regional destinations. The move comes as the future of the city-owned airport remains unclear with an ongoing debate over converting the land into a park.
"JSX has reimagined regional air travel with comfort, reliability, and accessibility at its core, and we see Santa Monica Airport as a natural gateway to extend that experience to local residents," said Alex Wilcox, JSX's chief executive officer.
The company said its choice of aircraft reflects sensitivity to community concerns about noise and environmental impact. The ATR 42-600 features lower fuel consumption and advanced noise-reduction technology compared to traditional jet aircraft, according to JSX.
"Our approach at SMO is centered on thoughtful, responsible operations that respect the neighborhood and align with the values of the Santa Monica community," Wilcox said.
JSX said its application is in response to proven local demand. The company said more than 2,200 Santa Monica residents have already flown JSX from other regional airports, taking more than 14,000 trips in recent years.
"As long as the airport is open, it should serve our community," said Santa Monica resident Lorae Tayler. "Air service from SMO would be convenient and reduce time in traffic traveling to other regional airports and keep the economic benefits local."
The proposed service would offer JSX's signature streamlined experience, including check-in just 20 minutes before departure at a dedicated lobby. The ATR 42-600 would feature 30 seats, complimentary snacks and cocktails, and planned high-speed internet service.
JSX markets itself as a "hop-on" public charter service that bridges the gap between commercial airlines and private jets. Founded in 2016, the company operates 29 airports across the United States and Mexico with a fleet of 50 Embraer jets and two ATR 42-600 turboprops.
The air carrier has received industry recognition, including being named the top domestic public charter jet service by Travel + Leisure magazine in both 2024 and 2025. JSX was also the first air carrier worldwide to receive autism-aware certification in 2019.
How long JSX would operate is unknown as the Airport itself may be on borrowed time. The City has the ability to close the airport in 2028 and a debate has emerged over the future of the land. While longtime airport critics want the property to become a new park, a new push for housing on the site emerged recently. Council is awaiting a feasibility study on options before making final decisions on what might happen.
However, the airport is open in the meantime. If approved by airport authorities, JSX would join other operators at the facility, which primarily serves general aviation, flight training and charter services. The airport's central location near downtown Santa Monica and proximity to major beaches and business districts makes it attractive to aviation companies despite the operational restrictions.
The timeline for approval of JSX's application remains unclear, but the company said it is prepared to begin service in 2025 if approved.