The Air Show ATR Bets on JSX
Jan 16, 2026
ATR introduces a new turboprop aircraft, the ATR-42, aimed at US airlines that have been hesitant to embrace turboprops. JSX is testing it for short routes, potentially transforming the market. The hosts discuss JSX's comeback, regulatory hurdles, and how ATR's efficiency might open access to more airports. They also highlight passenger experiences and the shifting perceptions about turboprops among younger travelers. Risks and challenges remain, but ATR believes its strategy could mimic Airbus's successful entry into the US market.
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First JSX ATR-42 Demo In Santa Monica
- Jon describes attending a Santa Monica event where JSX debuted an ATR-42 leased from TruNord and pulled from Silver Airways.
- He and Brian interviewed JSX and ATR CEOs to explore the turboprop experiment and US strategy.
ATR Has A Competitive Turboprop But Faces US Apathy
- Jon says ATR built a fuel-efficient, short-field aircraft with modern avionics that lacks a true competitor in the market.
- Yet US majors largely ignore turboprops, leaving ATR frustrated despite the airplane's capabilities.
Empty US Turboprop Market Presents Opportunity
- Brian outlines the long decline of regional turboprops in the US and notes ATR's market is nearly empty domestically.
- That emptiness creates both a challenge and an opportunity for ATR to reintroduce turboprops.