Arrived 20 minutes before takeoff… didn’t even fly private. Semi-private flights (think: 15 to 30 passengers) have gained traction since the pandemic began, as germ fears led some travelers to seek out less crowded options. These flights aren’t regulated by the TSA and typically depart from private terminals, so security is much quicker.
While these semi-private perks sound pricey, some companies are offering them for prices comparable to first class or even economy.
For example, JSX offers a round trip from Los Angeles to Vegas for under $200. Or an Austin-Dallas roundtrip for $170. Luxury rivals like Aero, Tradewind, and Set Jet are more comparable to first-class prices.
Sweeteners: JSX passengers can valet their cars at the airport and hop on a 30-seat jet (with their pet) just 20 minutes before takeoff. JSX says it’s the first air carrier to roll out in-flight WiFi from SpaceX’s Starlink satellites.
Downsides: These companies have a limited number of routes (nothing near commercial airlines). And they’re typically pricier than a regular flight.
Not too hot, not too cold… Most folks can’t afford a first-class ticket, much less a private plane. But most people also hate being sandwiched in the middle seat in economy and would rather skip long TSA lines. Travelers are also tired of thousands of cancellations and delays from major airlines. Semi-private flights offer a Goldilocks option between flying private and flying commercial.
“Too good to be true” is hard to maintain… There’s a reason airlines squeeze us in like sardines: $$. Planes are expensive to fly and maintain, and 30-person flights at commercial prices don’t seem like sustainable moneymakers. To expand its routes, JSX said it’s going to add a new aircraft to its fleet every six weeks. These companies are cruising in growth mode, but they might have to lift prices to lengthen their runway.