Information on JetSMART Flights

As an avid traveler always on the hunt for the best deals, I recently turned my attention to JetSMART, a fast-growing ultra-low-cost carrier based in Santiago, Chile.

Despite being relatively new on the scene, JetSMART connects passengers to a variety of destinations across South America at prices that are hard to beat. With budget-friendly fares that let you stretch your travel dollars further, it’s an airline worth considering if you’re looking to explore more of the continent without breaking the bank.

Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your journey on JetSMART and ensure a smooth experience with this up-and-coming airline.

Fare classes

JetSMART has 3 fare options designed for different types of travelers. You can choose between extra perks or just the essentials to match your travel style and budget.

Travel Light is the most basic and budget-friendly option. It is ideal for those who are “traveling light” and looking to travel with minimal costs. This option typically includes only the flight and a small personal item. Additional services such as checked baggage, seat selection and priority boarding are all still available, but each with an extra fee. And most fees are charged per leg.

Pack Smart is the mid-tier option. The fare includes one checked bag, priority boarding, seat selection in rows 15-32 and the option to change the flight once without a change fee.

I love this last feature, and JetSMART allows you to make this one change up to 1 hour before the flight takes off for free. All you have to pay is the price difference between the fares if there is one. So, if you are having the time of your life in Rio and want to stay a few extra days, you can.

Pack Full is the highest fare tier on JetSMART. It includes everything Pack Smart does, but also includes front row seating and the ability to print your boarding pass at the airport. I personally do not need either of these two features, so I tend to stick to the Pack Smart tier, but if you like getting on and off the plane in a snap this would be the tier for you.

One thing I love about JetSMART is the Set Your Price feature. It lets me hold the price of my ticket for up to 48 hours, so I can take my time deciding without worrying about fare hikes or losing my seat.

During this hold period, my reservation is guaranteed and the price won’t change until I’m ready to buy. There is a very small fee for this option (usually starting around just a few dollars), but it is worth it to avoid unexpected price increases or a sell-out while I finalize travel plans.

JetSMART check-in

You can check in online anytime from 72 hours to 70 minutes before your flight on JetSMART.

If you choose to check in online, your boarding pass is free. If you book the Pack Full fare, you can check in or print your boarding pass at the airport for free, too. However, if you go with one of the more budget-friendly options, you’ll need to check in online unless you’re willing to pay extra to do it at the airport.

Both Pack Full and Pack Smart tiers come with priority boarding, which means you will board the plane first.

If you go with the basic fare but still want priority boarding, you can always purchase a priority boarding pass. A word to the wise: It is always cheaper to purchase a pass – or any add-on – at the time you purchase your plane ticket. If you wait to purchase an add-on at the airport, it will more than likely be more expensive.

JetSMART flight changes

JetSMART offers flexibility with its change policy, allowing you to modify your date, flight, route or even the passenger name for a fee and any applicable fare difference. Just keep in mind that all changes must be made through the Contact Center at least 1 hour before your flight. There are no last-minute changes at the airport allowed.

If you switch to a lower-cost service, the difference can be applied to additional charges or optional services. All optional services will carry over to your new flight and if an exact match isn’t available, JetSMART will offer the closest alternative. Any leftover balance from optional services can be used toward change fees, but any excess will remain with JetSMART with no refunds or credits beyond that.

If you purchase a Pack Full or Pack Smart fare, you are allowed to make one change to the date, time or destination up to one hour before takeoff without paying a change fee. You will still be responsible for paying any difference in fare between the two tickets.

JetSMART membership

JetSMART offers a discount club that might catch your eye if you frequently travel within South America.

For a relatively low annual fee, the Standard Membership covers you and a companion, offering savings per passenger per leg on most fares, plus a small savings off each piece of luggage per leg. If you’re traveling with a group, the Group Membership is available for a slightly more expensive annual fee and extends these discounts to you and up to 5 others.

You can sign up for a membership at any time, even while booking your ticket. Just choose the membership option, fill in your details, make the payment and you’re all set to start saving on every flight. While this membership is relatively inexpensive, I don’t find it particularly valuable for US-based travelers. However, if you’re based in South America or spend a lot of time flying within the region, it’s worth considering.

Pet policy

JetSMART makes it easy to bring your furry friend along on your travels – for an additional fee per leg, of course. If you’re planning to fly with your pet, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.

Only dogs and cats are allowed, with no breed restrictions, and each passenger is limited to one pet. Your pet must be at least three months old and travel in a soft, well-ventilated container that meets specific size requirements and weighs no more than 10 kilograms (22 pounds), including your pet.

JetSMART only allows up to 4 pets per flight, so it’s a good idea to book this service early, either when purchasing your ticket or up to 48 hours before your flight through the Contact Center.

Speaking of animals, one feature I love about JetSMART is that each of their aircrafts have a South American animal painted on the tail of the plane. While they are all cute, my favorite might be the Colibri of Arica. At just 3.5 inches long, this hummingbird family native to Chile is one of the smallest birds in the world.

In-flight entertainment

If you’re on a long flight with this airline, be sure to download something to watch or bring a book. JetSMART doesn’t offer onboard entertainment, Wi-Fi or magazines. This is one of the ways the airline keeps prices low.

JetSMART alliances and code sharing

JetSMART is not part of a major global airline alliance, but it’s teamed up with American Airlines through a codeshare agreement. This means you can book connecting flights all in one go, with your luggage checked through to your final destination and your trip covered in case of delays or cancellations. It also opens your travel options up to 350 destinations in 60 countries.

As an AA AAdvantage member, I’m always thrilled to earn miles on flights and happy that JetSMART allows me to do so. Flying JetSMART for domestic legs in Chile before connecting internationally on American Airlines has been a game-changer for me, as it takes the hassle out of separate bookings.