Jet America agreed to purchase Best Airlines.

Best, headquartered in Florence, Ky., began scheduled and charter service June 24, 1982, but ceased flying its two DC-9 jets last fall. Under the agreement in principle, Long Beach-based Jet America will acquire the two aircraft for use on its existing routes, some related property and landing rights in several cities not now served by Jet America, a spokesman said. Financial terms of the agreement were not divulged.