http://spasupport.com/airlocks/jetlock1.gif
That diagram shows how an airlock can occur between two jets because of the design and rise of the plumbing hose. (This particular diagram actually shows how an airlock between two jets will cause the end jet to have a REVERSE water flow because of it).
Now in your case you've got an independent air line attached to the affected jets that aren't daisy chained with the rest of them, however the affect is the same. If there's an airlock between the jets themselves, then there will be no water pressure to create the venturi effect that pulls the air into the tub, which removes the water.
All that said, remember that when your jets are turned off, the water will rise up to the level of the tub IN THE AIR LINES because it's normal.
So, since you don't have water pressure in those jets, the water is in the air line.
The only way I've ever found to be able to remove this kind of inter-jet airlock in the past (this problem is more prevalent on a few older CalSpas) is to close down the jets in the chain prior to the airlocked ones. This will force the water into the air locked cavity pushing the air out.
Your mileage will definitely vary.