I couldn’t find a JSX flight from Carlsbad Airport, so I had to fly out of Orange County instead. It wasn’t too bad since it’s only about an hour away from downtown San Diego. My flight was at 10 AM, and even though JSX recommends arriving just 20 minutes before departure, I decided to get there a bit earlier—just in case. Since it was my first time flying JSX, I wasn’t sure what to expect.
Parking – Arrival
I drove my own car and booked parking through SpotHero at the Marriott Hotel for $55 for seven days, which was a great deal. JSX does offer valet parking, but I couldn’t find the pricing online beforehand. Later, I asked, and they told me their valet service costs $55 per day—so I was happy with my choice.
The only downside was that my parking spot didn’t have a direct shuttle to JSX, so I had to take an Uber for about $9. My driver dropped me off right at the JSX doors, helped me with my bags, and then the JSX employees took over. Since I had a lot of ski equipment, being dropped off at the entrance was incredibly convenient—way better than dragging my luggage through a crowded airport terminal.
Check-in and lounge
Check-in was super smooth—it took literally a minute. The staff quickly found my reservation, printed my boarding pass, and checked my luggage.
One thing I didn’t know: JSX doesn’t allow standard carry-on roller bags in the cabin—they have to be checked. JSX tickets include two checked bags (one small and one large), so it wasn’t a big deal, but any additional bags cost extra. I had to pay $50 to check my small carry-on. However, you can bring a small personal bag onboard for free.
After check-in, I waited in the JSX lounge, which was simple but comfortable. Nothing too fancy, but way better than a traditional airport terminal. I grabbed some coffee, relaxed, and even got a little work done before my flight.
Boarding – Flight Experience
Boarding started just 15 minutes before departure. They made a quick announcement, and we walked straight outside to the plane—no TSA lines, no crowded gates, just easy boarding.
The JSX aircraft is small and semi-private, with one row of seats on the left and two on the right, fitting about 30 passengers total.
The seats were spacious and comfortable, with a sleek, modern design. The flight itself was only 1 hour and 10 minutes to Lake Tahoe, and everything was seamless.
One of the best parts? JSX offers Starlink Wi-Fi, which was faster than my home internet—a total game-changer for in-flight connectivity!
Shortly after takeoff, they started drink and snack service. There was a great selection of beverages and high-quality snacks, and the flight attendant was super nice and accommodating.
Arrival
Landing was just as smooth as the rest of the experience. Our luggage was waiting for us right outside the plane—no baggage claim, no waiting. Everything was quick, efficient, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
JSX offers an incredibly seamless, comfortable, and luxurious way to travel. From the easy check-in process to the fast Wi-Fi and the convenience of skipping airport chaos, this was probably my best flight experience ever.
Would I recommend it? 100% YES!
Want to try JSX for yourself? Use my referral code QEEWVO to get $100 off your first JSX flight!
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