Favorite private planes of the rich now include converted commercial aircraft--and we don't mean little puddle-jumpers. Here, we've selected a few of the biggest and most extravagant planes belonging to billionaires and the mega-rich alike. All the prices quoted are "green" (aviation-speak for list price, or the cost of the plane excluding interior amenities).
Airbus A380 $300 million-plus
Although the name of the sole purchaser of the Airbus A380 remains a secret, the plane is widely thought to have been ordered by a member of Gulf State royalty. No doubt the owner will take advantage of the flying range. It can travel 9,000 miles nonstop, without refueling--the distance, say, from Chicago to Sydney, Australia.
Boeing 747-8 $270 million-$280 million
Four people have already purchased the Boeing 747-8, and two of those lucky individuals ponied up the cash early enough to take possession by 2010, provided the Federal Aviation Administration certifies it for noncommercial use by then. The purchase price gets you only the basics. To outfit it with a suitably luxe interior, expect to pay $20 million more.
Money in The Bank
Boeing 767 $118 million-$165 million
The Boeing 767 is favored by such billionaires as Chelsea football club owner Roman Abromavich and Google founders Larry Page and Serge Brin. The wide-body airplane has a relatively low operating cost, compared with similar craft, which may satisfy more stingy investors.
Boeing Business Jet 3 $68 million
Also known as the 737-900ER, this classic business jet is the latest updated version of the plane that pioneered the concept of converted commercial jets in 1996. Its state-of-the-art flight deck systems, such as Head-Up Display, Global Positioning Landing System and Vertical Situation Display, bring this model to the top the tech queue.
Airbus ACJ $65 million-plus
Aviation company Privatair uses the Airbus Corporate Jet to accommodate several of its high net worth customers. Heads of state--including French officials and the president of Brazil--use the plane as a main form of transportation, says CEO Greg Thomas.
Bombardier BD-700 Global Express $45 million
The ultra-long, ultra-speedy corporate jet makes flying from New York to Tokyo almost a breeze, thanks to a top speed of almost 600 mph. What's more, it's got a spacious 48.5-foot cabin
Embraer Lineage 1000 $40.95 million
The company calls this "the most accomplished and luxurious business jet ever brought to market," and it has launched a massive marketing campaign at high net worth individuals and heads of state. Announced in May 2006, this 19-passenger jumbo jet will take its first flight in the middle of next year.
Gulfstream G550 $36 million
This business jet not only won the approval of London-based billionaire Lakshmi Mittal--it's also used by the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft's attributes include a satellite-based Global Positioning System, enhanced weather radar, autopilot and a military-style "heads-up" display that allows pilots to take their eyes off the control panel.
Dassault Falcon 900 $33 million-plus
This three-engine corporate jet is one of the more technologically advanced airplanes out there and is one of the only corporate jets that offer more than two engines. Billionaire Sergio Mantegazza, president of Swiss tour company Globus & Cosmos, is a confirmed Falcon owner.
Getting There The explosive popularity of personal-use jets is a perfect example.
Only the very wealthy opt to have full ownership of a private jet, which carries huge maintenance fees, insurance costs, multiple permits and gas requirements.
But it is a luxury so enticing that even Warren Buffett couldn’t resist. He is the proud owner of a Gulfstream IV, which he jokingly named "The Indefensible" after having once mocked corporate jet ownership. These planes, which can accommodate as many as 16 passengers, usually sell for about $16 million and up, depending on the make, mileage and amenities.
Flying private is so desirable, in fact, that fractional ownership or chartering of personal-use jets is another option.
Though they are shared, these chartered jets do not skimp on luxury.
"It's got everything you can think of," says Wayne J. Rizzi of the Boeing Business Jet. Rizzi should know--he's CEO of Air Royale International, a 24-hour worldwide private air charter service that counts executives at Paramount Pictures and Warner Records as clients. A massive, 18-passenger aircraft, the Boeing commands a $143,000 one-way and $234,000 round-trip fare for a Van Nuys, Calif.-St. Kitts journey. "The best TV sets, a state-of-the-art galley, master bedroom with queen-sized bed, walk-in shower, plush leather seating," he adds. "It's like flying in your living room, literally."
