Between late January and March, the Valley experiences a significant tourism surge, fueled by premier events like Barrett-Jackson, the WM Phoenix Open, spring training and Scottsdale Art Week. This peak season also brings a notable increase in private aviation traffic and luxury jet service.
Called a “hop-on” public charter service, JSX sees an uptick in Arizona travel, particularly around major sporting events like spring training, WM Phoenix Open, conventions and cultural events.
“Travelers seek convenient, stress-free alternatives to long lines, crowded terminals and the hassles of traditional airlines. JSX’s routes connect key West Coast cities to Scottsdale (SCF) including Orange County (SNA), Dallas (DAL), Denver (APA), Las Vegas (LAS), Oakland/SF (OAK), Salt Lake City (SLC), and Los Angeles (SMO/BUR).”
JSX serves 29 airports across the United States and Mexico with a fleet of 51 Embraer jets and 2 ATR turboprops. With over 1,000 crewmembers, JSX links popular leisure and business destinations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Texas.
Guests check in 20 minutes before their domestic flight from dedicated private terminals; 45 for international flights. After checking in, travelers are greeted by a bright, modern cabin interior featuring 30 comfortable seats with business class legroom, no middle seats, and power outlets at every row
The Scottsdale-based official private jet charter partner for the WM Phoenix Open, PrismJet flies players, musicians and guests traveling to “The People’s Open.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with the WM Phoenix Open and provide exceptional charter service for the players and guests,” said Scott Casey, vice president at PrismJet. “As we continue to grow, we hope to continue to connect with community-based organizations and help clients reap the enjoyment and valuable benefits from flying private.”
PrismJet’s charter fleet includes: a Challenger 604, a Challenger 300, two Challenger 350s, a Lear 45XR, and a King Air 350i, all in Scottsdale.
Gordon Cameron — the vice president of revenue for Milwaukee’s JetOUT — said he sees an uptick in business at the Scottsdale base.
“Big events are interesting, right?” Cameron said. “[Locals] huddle up inside and let all the outsiders tour the town and take over the restaurant reservations.
“It really adds stimulus to the economy. Private aviation is a mechanism in the medium in which many people are coming in for. We’re certainly proud and excited to be a part of it operationally.”
The burst of tourists can create issues, however.
“They’ll shut down taxiways and park airplanes out there,” said Cameron, who is based in Milwaukee.
“Ramps become where we park airplanes and then let passengers in and out, refuel and all that is kind of a ramp for us. Those become extremely congested. So, you know, the supply chain of private aviation really gets [congested], and pressure tested during really big events. And so, it’s always a fun challenge for us.
“What I love about the JetOUT model is when everyone leaves and goes home, JetOUT is still there. And it really helps us during these crazy event times, to have local relationships, because we see you 12 months out of the year, not just a few days out of a year, right?”
Cameron said his business has evolved from a luxurious, opulent choice to a time-saving option.
“If you want to get to an event in Phoenix, conduct business and want to get home to your family as quickly as possible, private aviation is it,” he said.
