Despite being increasingly popular among the elite, private jets remain a significantly expensive option for regular fliers. Between luxury private charter and commercial flights lies the semi-private air travel option.
Semi-private operators offer charter and scheduled flights to select destinations and generally sell individual seats on smaller aircraft, including regional jets like the Embraer ERJs and Bombardier CRJs. Fitting up to 30 passengers in comfortable, luxury seating, semi-private operators offer an upscale experience at a cost significantly lower than the hourly cost of a private jet.
This article explores some of the best semi-private air carriers offering chartered and scheduled services.
1
JSX
Offering business class amenities on private flights
- Hassle-Free: Passengers can check-in 20 minutes before flight on most flights.
- Crowd-Free: Offers crowd-free hangars with a TSA-approved security program
- Convenient: Offers business class amenities on spacious 30-seat jets with free Starlink Wi-Fi.
JetSuiteX, commonly known as JSX, is an American operator that offers semi-private flights in the United States and Mexico. The public charter service operates point-to-point services between and within several major states and is known for its 30-seat Embraer ERJ-135s and ERJ-145S. With a coast-to-coast network, JSX serves 43 routes across 22 North American markets.
Photo: JSX
The carrier enjoys lower TSA screening requirements for its charter operations, offering passengers a hassle-free and crowd-free alternative to commercial flights.
JSX utilizes fixed-based operator terminals, offering TSA-approved security services for a more private-jet experience for its customers. According to JSX,
“No crowds. Dedicated hangars. Baggage included. Free drinks. Fast Wi-Fi. This is flying, designed for you.”
- One-way fares starting at $119
- Up to two checked bags
- Complimentary snacks and drinks
- Fast Starlink Wi-Fi
2
Aero
Sole operator of Embraer jets
- Save precious time: skip the lines and crowds by traveling between private terminals.
- Curbside check-in: just 20 minutes before the flight and effortless boarding.
- Comfort with generous space: Italian leather seats and a relaxing ambiance.
- Complimentary food: A premium open bar and complimentary in-flight dining featuring Erewhon.
Aero is relatively new to the semi-private jet market, and its initial launch was in Europe in 2020. Aero’s customized aircraft include 13-seat Embraer Legacy 600s and 16-seat Embraer ERJ 135s. Its high focus on luxury and passenger comfort makes it relatively more expensive than the competition.
Photo: Aero
The sleek all-black livery is equipped with hand-stitched Italian leather seats, suede side walls, and mood lighting. The seat configuration offers generous legroom with a 43-inch pitch. The Aero fleet also offers plenty of luggage space in the cabin.
3
BLADE
Also offers a unique helicopter service
- Captain’s chair seating
- Aisle and window access.
- Flights feature best-in-class wellness products
- No detail is overlooked
- No reasonable request is denied
BLADEone is another semi-private jet service that offers seasonal service between West Chester County Airport in New York and Miami or Palm Beach, Florida. The carrier operates Bombardier CRJ 200 and Bombardier Challenger 850, each configured for only 16 passengers.
The carrier also offers airport helicopter service, connecting passengers for their jet flights. According to BLADE,
“If you’re traveling to swim, BLADE is the best way to fly there. BLADEone is a uniquely appointed jet that offers the most unforgettable flying experience. Take a helicopter from Manhattan to Westchester and have curbside valet take you right to your jet. Enjoy in-flight service from our renowned SKYfx team and feast on world-class cuisine when you fly on masterfully reimagined jets offered by BLADE.”
4
Tradewind Aviation
Providing personal air travel throughout North America and the Caribbean
- Private: Travel on your schedule and to any destination throughout North America and the Caribbean
- Scheduled: Offering the comfort and convenience of private service for the cost of a single seat
Tradewind operates a range of chartered and scheduled flights to destinations across North America and the Caribbean. The carrier operates a fleet of Pilatus PC-12 aircraft capable of short—to medium-range flights and secures leased aircraft for large-cabin operations.
Travel+Leisure states that the Tradewind private flight one-way fares start at $200 for the Caribbean services and approximately $850 for Northeast services. According to Tradewind Aviation,
“Enjoy seamless scheduled and private travel to some of the more luxurious destinations throughout North America, the Caribbean, and beyond. Discover our most popular destinations and the most convenient ways to get there.”