Owning a private jet is not merely a symbol of luxury; for some A-list celebrities and business magnates, it is an opportunity to showcase opulence in size, design, and cost. Here, we explore the five most expensive private jets globally, each a testament to the extravagant tastes of their high-profile owners.
Gulfstream G650ER – $150m – Owner: Kim Kardashian
Reality TV star and business mogul Kim Kardashian makes a statement with her Gulfstream G650ER, affectionately named ‘Kim Air.’ Acquired for a reported $95m, Kim spared no expense in customizing the jet to match her lavish style, bringing the total expenditure to a staggering $150m.
The G650ER boasts an extended range of 7,500 nautical miles, surpassing its predecessor.
Boeing 747 – $230m – Owner: Hassanal Bolkiah
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei takes luxury to the skies with his Boeing 747-400, dubbed ‘The Flying Palace.’ Valued at $230 million, this presidential plane, registered as V8-ALI, became famous for its gold-adorned interior. The Sultan has since upgraded to the newer Boeing 747-8 VIP quadjet, suggesting a continued commitment to opulent air travel.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner – $350m – Owner: Roman Abramovich
Russian billionaire and former Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich owns a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner valued at approximately $350m. Operated by Global Jet on his behalf, the aircraft, registered as P4-BDL, offers comfort for 50 passengers. Despite its luxury, two of Abramovich’s planes faced potential seizure by the US Department of Justice in 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner – $367m – Owner: Joseph Lau
Hong Kong real estate tycoon Joseph Lau claims the top spot with his Boeing 787-8 VIP, a $367 million investment. Confusion persists regarding the aircraft type, with some sources citing a Boeing 747-8 VIP. However, Boeing’s announcement in 2007 confirmed Lau’s order for a more compact 787-8 VIP. Customization costs surpassed double the original price, reaching an astounding $367 million.
As these high-flying individuals continue to redefine luxury in the skies, their private jets serve as flying testaments to the limitless extravagance that money can buy.
Lau is said to have invested approximately $153 million in purchasing this aircraft, typically designed to seat up to 250 people. Reports indicate that the customization costs for Lau’s Boeing surpassed double the original price of the aircraft, reaching a reported total of $367 million.
