ATR sees strong U.S. market potential as JSX showcases ATR 42-600

Joining JSX this week in Santa Monica to celebrate the US public charter carrier’s first 30-seat ATR 42-600, ATR doubled down on its message that the U.S. market holds “strong potential” for turboprops.

“T]he retirement of aging 50-seat regional jets is creating a connectivity gap that turboprops are uniquely positioned to fill, offering airlines an efficient, responsible solution for communities across the U.S.,” said ATR as JSX showcased the passenger-pleasing attributes of the ATR 42-600, which has plied its Santa Monica-Las Vegas route since December.

The 2-1-configured turboprop features cabin interiors from the airframer’s new HighLine collection, including single seats on the left side of the aircraft with side tables and cupholders.

Passengers who have flown aboard the turboprop on JSX’s short-hop SMO-LAS route report that the legroom is quite comfortable. JSX also continues to receive high praise for its complimentary premium snacks and beverages.

SpaceX’s Starlink Ku-band Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite-powered inflight connectivity service is “coming soon” to the aircraft, JSX vows on its web site.

A US Federal Aviation Administration-approved supplemental type certificate covering Starlink’s install on ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 turboprops is “pending,” according to SpaceX’s Starlink Aviation web site. The ATR 42-600 is not mentioned but given JSX’s promise, it is presumably in the works.

JSX is poised to grow its ATR fleet to support further expansion. Its first ATR 42-600, and a forthcoming second leased -600, were formerly operated by Silver Airways.

In June 2025, during the Paris Air Show, JSX inked a Letter of Intent for up to 25 ATR HighLine-equipped aircraft — either ATR 42-600s with 30 seats or the All-Business Class ATR 72-600s, configured 1-1 with recliners.

Behind the scenes, ATR has worked to secure the necessary approvals to ensure that JSX can expand its network to challenging airports.

“To enable JSX’s long-term strategy of reaching underserved, challenging airports across the Mountain West, ATR recently secured FAA approval for a critical modification that allows operations at high-altitude airports,” explains ATR.

“Achieved in record time and in collaboration with JSX, this certification reflects ATR’s agility and commitment to customer success.”

A #GreenWing aircraft, which boasts impressive sustainability credentials, the ATR turboprop is being positioned by the airframer as a perfect replacement for as many as 300 fuel-guzzling regional jets in the United States.

For JSX, the 30-seat ATR 42-600 is “a game-changer,” says JSX chief executive officer Alex Wilcox, noting that it enables JSX to “expand our award-winning hop on service to thousands more airports across the U.S. while maintaining the premium experience our customers expect.”

ATR CEO Nathalie Tarnaud-Laude adds: “Introducing ATR aircraft into JSX’s unique operating model is a powerful statement that our aircraft offering can elevate regional travels. And the ATR is not only relevant for today’s passenger expectations; it is future-ready. Together with JSX, we are defining the next generation of regional passenger experience.”