JSX plans Oakland-Santa Monica route as West Coast regional flying shifts

JSX plans to add a new Oakland-Santa Monica route on Sept. 14, extending its West Coast regional network with a short intrastate flight between the Bay Area and Southern California.

According to reporting published Saturday, the carrier says the service will operate up to three times a day using 30-passenger ATR 42-600 turboprops. JSX is also advertising free Starlink Wi-Fi onboard and introductory fares starting at $149 one way.

The route stands out because it would serve Santa Monica Airport, which is already on a closure timetable. The airport is scheduled to shut down on Dec. 31, 2028, after which the 227-acre site is expected to become park space.

Why the route matters

The new flight would give travelers another intrastate option linking Oakland International Airport and Santa Monica, two markets that sit at opposite ends of the state but are connected by heavy road traffic and long drive times.

It also highlights a broader shift in short-haul regional flying on the West Coast, where smaller aircraft and airport-specific service are being used to target time-sensitive travelers.

What is confirmed

JSX has said the route is planned for Sept. 14, with up to three daily flights.

The company says it will use ATR 42-600 aircraft configured for 30 passengers and equipped with free Starlink Wi-Fi.

The advertised introductory fare is $149 one way.

Santa Monica Airport remains open for now, but its closure date is set for Dec. 31, 2028.

What to watch next

The main questions now are whether JSX posts a formal timetable or booking page, whether local officials comment on the new service, and whether the schedule or aircraft plan changes before launch.