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Board clears JSX to relocate operations at John Wayne Airport; board, FBO and carrier say move will reduce disruption
Summary
Supervisors approved a revised commuter airline operating license allowing JSX to move to Jay's Aircraft Services leasehold at John Wayne Airport while a taxiway reconstruction project proceeds. Airport staff said federal and TSA approvals are in place and JSX plans to fly quieter aircraft.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors on March 11 approved a revised commuter airline operating license that will allow JSX to relocate its John Wayne Airport operations to a sublease at Jay's Aircraft Services while taxiway reconstruction happens on the East Side lease area.
Why it matters: John Wayne Airport officials and local leaders told the board the relocation will keep JSX's service in the county with minimal traveler disruption and preserve jobs at a longtime general aviation fixed-base operator (FBO). Supervisors emphasized that the carrier operates quiet, small-jet aircraft and is subject to the airport's settlement agreement and curfew rules.
JSX and Jay's representatives urged support. George Sumner, one of Jay's owners, said the move "will be a positive addition for the airport and the community" and thanked airport staff for facilitating the sublease. Carrie Forbes, JSX's head of government and regulatory affairs, told supervisors the move will keep JSX's Embraer 135/145 fleet at the airport and that the carrier has invested in safety and noise-minimizing operations.
Board members noted that the relocation had required coordination with the FAA, TSA and the city of Costa Mesa, and the vote was approved without objection. Supervisors who spoke in favor said the arrangement provides a stable interim home for JSX and preserves services for county travelers while construction work proceeds.
Next steps: Airport staff will finalize sublease and operating details and the airport director was authorized to extend the license term and execute related administrative amendments as needed.
