#50 – 929-vintage Waco Taperwing ($250,000)
Clocking in at only 22.5 feet long and measuring nine feet tall, the 929-vintage Waco Taperling reaches a maximum speed of just under 140 miles per hour. So what makes this plane so special that it has a $250,000 price tag? With designer Charles Meyer only producing 1,700 of his famous birds between 1927 and 1933, there are only 20 that actually remain in solid condition making them a huge collector’s item among aviation enthusiasts. But who exactly is willing to throw down that kind of cash on a vintage jet?
Potential Travel Destination: To a galaxy far, far away! Star Wars actor Harrison Ford might be known in Hollywood for his award-winning silver-screen performances over the last 50 years but, in the aviation world, he’s known as a qualified pilot, plane enthusiast and the owner of a prized 929-vintage Waco Taperling. If you think that’s the only plane he owns, guess again as the legendary Han Solo makes a habit of spending the majority of his $210 million net worth filling his very own private hangar with some of the finest planes ever made!
#49 – Aviat A-1B Husky ($300,000)
The only plane from the Wyoming-based Aviat Aircraft company to make our list, the A-1B Husky was produced in the mid-to-late 1980s just as the United States saw a significant decrease in the availability and production of light planes. As a result, Aviat found the perfect solution with their widely popular tandem two-seat design that attracted even the United States Border Patrol to hop on board. With only 650 of the models actually made in the last 30 years, it’s no surprise that getting your hands on one isn’t very easy since a top-of-the-line model has been out of production for years and will set you back around $300,000.
Potential Travel Destination: To the Golden State! Yet another vintage airplane owned by the Blade Runner star, the 74-year-old Harrison Ford took his first flying lesson at the age of 52 and was instantly hooked. Now a well-respected private aircraft and helicopter pilot, Ford has logged countless hours in the air flying some of aviation’s most sought after planes between his sprawling 800-acre ranch in Jackson, Wyoming and the “City of Angels” where he’s recognized as one of the biggest movie stars of all time.
#48 – Cessna 182 ($500,000)
With only enough room for four passengers and two children, the Cessna 182 Skylane might not be extremely spacious but it still manages to bring in a $500,000 price tag. Still in production today since its debut in 1956, production has started and stopped over the years after first halting in 1985 and resuming in 1996 before halting again in 2012. Back in production today since 2015 with over 23,000 planes produced featuring dozens of upgrades, the 182s certainly haven’t gotten any cheaper with the newer versions racking up even higher price tags thanks to their turbocharged engines.
Potential Travel Destination: Take a wild guess who owns this American plane? That’s right! Harrison Ford is only a quick limo drive away from the Santa Monica Airport where he keeps his Cessna 182 for those weekend adventures with his wife of six years, fellow actress Calista Flockhart. Just where might they go? With the sky as the limit, we wouldn’t be surprised if Ford hasn’t taken a trip down memory lane and visited the Windy City dam where his character—Dr. Richard Kimble—jumped off the bridge in the 1993 blockbuster The Fugitive.
#47 – Cessna 414 ($500,000)
How about another Cessna? The second on our list, the Cessna 414 is much rarer than the Cessna 182 Skylane but, believe it or not, it will set you back just as much coming in at a cool half-million dollars. Compared to its Cessna four-seater cousin, the 36-foot-long 414 was produced from 1968 to 1985 and features an extra engine as well as room for eight passengers. With only 1,070 models produced in just under 20 years, the 414 is rare in the United States but is actually still used in military operations in the Bahamas and Lebanon.
Potential Travel Destination: Surprise, surprise! Harrison Ford isn’t the only star-studded actor who enjoys flying and collecting rare planes! Proving his talents beyond the silver screen and in the pilot’s seat, the 79-year-old Morgan Freeman is the proud owner of a Cessna 414, which he purchased shortly after earning his private pilot’s license 14 years ago. These days, the Academy Award-winner enjoys his time in the air flying across the country between his homes in Charleston, Mississippi, New York City and Los Angeles, California.
#46 – de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver ($600,000)
Returning to single engine bush planes, the de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver is a propeller plane that was, as you might expect, first introduced in Canada in 1947 for utility purposes such as hauling cargo and passengers as well as crop dusting. During their 20-year production, over 1,600 Beavers were produced with many still used today as part of the United States Air Force, Canadian Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force fleets. In fact, the Beaver made such an impact in its native Canada that the Royal Canadian Mint even commemorated it on a special edition Canadian quarter released in 1999.
Potential Travel Destination: Did you miss him? Making a grand return to Harrison Ford’s prestigious hangar at the Santa Monica Airport, it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise to learn that Ford dished out $600,000 to add the Beaver to his fleet. Why? Our best guess is that he needed a smaller bird to land on the runway in rural Pennsylvania where his 1985 thriller Witness was filmed. Then again, maybe he’s just a big spender!
#45 – Beechcraft B36TC Bonanza ($700,000)
Another small plane to make our list is the Beechcraft Bonanza, which was introduced by the Beech Aircraft Corporation of Wichita, Kansas nearly 70 years ago in 1947. The six-seater single engine plane is still in production today making it the longest airplane to be in continual production in aviation history. Today, over 17,000 planes are in circulation and include a few variations such as the B36TC, which is the most expensive at $700,000 and is known for its signature V-shaped tail that resembles the earlier style of post-World War II production in America.
Potential Travel Destination: Aloha! Resembling the plane featured in the beginning of Harrison Ford’s Raiders of the Lost Ark in 1981, there’s a good chance that landing this on the water isn’t the safest idea. However, flying it to exotic locations like Hawaii is more than ideal for such an iconic plane!
#44 – Cirrus SR22 ($725,000)
Introduced by Cirrus Aircraft out of Duluth, Minnesota in 2001, the single engine Cirrus SR 22 has been the best-selling four-seat aircraft every year since 2004 with over 4,300 models produced until 2013. One of the SR22’s biggest appeals in the private plane market is its state-of-the-art emergency system that allows the entire plane to deploy a parachute in the event of an emergency. Now known as the “plane with the parachute,” the Cirrus SR22 really does seem to have it all with greater fuel capacity, more power and added peace of mind. What more could you want?
Potential Travel Destination: Africa! Joining the likes of fellow actors Harrison Ford and Morgan Freeman, Angelina Jolie’s favorite way to jet around the world is in the Cirrus SR22. Known for starring in films like Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Wanted and Salt, the 41-year-old actress, filmmaker and humanitarian could easily make a trip to Africa in the SR22 for one of her many advocacy campaigns or perhaps to add to her brood of six children with Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt. After all, you never know what Hollywood’s most influential couple will do next!
#43 – Grumman HU-16 Albatross ($1 Million)
If you’re a fan of military planes, then look no further! The Grumman HU-16 Albatross was first introduced in 1949 as an amphibious search and rescue plane used by the United States Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard. Producing only 466 planes up until 1961, the HU-16 Albatross was officially retired from military use in 1995 and instantly became a hot commodity for aviation enthusiasts looking to add to their collections. Measuring nearly 63 feet long with over a 96-foot wingspan and enough room for 10 passengers, the $1 million price tag on the Albatross eliminated many collectors from the competition except one we’re certain you’ll recognize.
Potential Travel Destination: Margaritaville! There’s no doubt that this HU-16 Albatross has spent plenty of time “wasting away” in Jimmy Buffett’s famed Margaritaville. A licensed private pilot outside of his time on stage with his Coral Reefer Band, the 69-year-old Parrothead leader dubbed the plane the Hemisphere Dancer. Unfortunately, because of its distinctive military design, it was mistaken for a drug smuggling plane and was shot at by Jamaican police in 1996 leaving Buffett no other choice but to retire it completely in 2003.
#42 – Mooney Bravo ($1.5 Million)
Earning a reputation as an innovator in the aviation industry, Al Mooney and the Mooney Airplane Company made a huge splash in 1955 when they debuted their Mooney M20. Still in production today with over 11,000 planes in circulation, the M20 family embodies dozens of variations in propeller aircraft over the last 60 years as well as increased horsepower and longer bodies compared to the M20M Bravo introduced in 1989. By 2008, the company was on the verge of closing and had stopped production of the M20s when China introduced new capital six years later that allowed them to resume business as usual.
Potential Travel Destination: The Big Apple! The first politician on our list, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is a huge fan of the Mooney Bravo when it comes to traveling for Bloomberg L.P., which is headquartered in the Big Apple. Worth an impressive $48.3 billion, the 74-year-old isn’t shy about hopping on board to head to one of his 13 vacation homes stretching around the world with his latest purchase taking him across the pond to London where he bought novelist, poet and Victorian writer George Eliot’s estate.
#41 – Cessna Citation 501 ($1.5 Million)
Once the go-to name for small business jets before international travel become mainstream, Cessna raised the bar in 1969 when they released the Cessna Citation 501. One of the most successful brands of the entire line, production of the Citation 501 ended after 16 years in 1986 with less than 700 planes ever made as a result of changing aviation regulations requiring new licensures to market to single piloted planes. Already facing a highly publicized battle after MLB star Thurman Munson crashed his Citation and died at the age of 32 years old while practicing his landing, Cessna eventually pulled the plug on the 501’s production.
Potential Travel Destination: South of the border…or wherever Morgan wants to go! Yet another plane owned by Morgan Freeman, the Citation 501 is a far cry from Freeman’s Driving Miss. Daisy days as the jet is fully capable of flying long distances with enough room to comfortably fit two crew members and five passengers. Come to think of it, the Shawshank Redemption star just might enjoy a trip to Mexico’s Zihuatanejo to meet up with some old friends after all these years!
#40 – Cessna 208B Grand Caravan ($2 Million)
Climbing higher in terms of both price tags and planes, the next aircraft on our list crosses the $2 million mark with Cessna’s final entry, the 208 Caravan. With nearly 2,500 in production since 1982, the base price of this single engine turboprop plane seems fairly reasonable (for a plane at least!) until you start adding customization options to meet any pilot’s needs such as seating for up to 14. But, there are plenty other planes for that! Today, the 208 Caravan is primarily used by the FedEx company for short-distance deliveries.
Potential Travel Destination: The Holy Grail! Despite flying his de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver more than any of his other aircraft, the 208 Grand Caravan is the Holy Grail of Harrison Ford’s entire collection. And, speaking of the Holy Grail, Ford could easily make the long trek back to Jordan in the Caravan to relive the penultimate scene as the iconic archaeology professor, Dr. Henry Jones Jr., who transformed into a “non-superhero superhero” in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
#39 – Grumman Goose ($2 Million)
From one Grumman to the next, the G-21 Goose was Grumman’s first monoplane twin engine aircraft as well as the company’s first aircraft to enter the commercial airline service after making its debut flight in 1937. Used by the United States and Canadian Air Force throughout World War II, the G-21 continued to be used commercially after the war and were relatively cheap with a $62,000 price tag. However, with the majority of the 345 models destroyed or crashed, the Goose is a huge collector’s item that can set you back an upwards of $2 million.
Potential Travel Destination: Wherever the drinks are strong, the sun is shining and the water is blue! Retiring his last Margaritaville-bound plane in 2003, Jimmy Buffett needed a new toy to explore the coast so, after 30 years of making amphibious landings in the Goose, he purchased it outright in 2009. Now, the famed musician, writer and businessman can live up to his own lyrics, “It’s time to see the world, time to kiss a girl and time to cross that wide meridian.”
#38 – Convair 880 ($2.7 Million)
When Boeing introduced the 707 and Douglas followed up with the DC-8, Convair tried to break into the commercial market with their smaller and faster 880 in 1959. Intended to be the go-to for passenger jets because of its innovative design and 615 miles per hour speed, the Convair 880 never actually took off (no pun intended) in the market leaving Convair to stop production at 65 airliners. Despite being used by Trans World, Delta and Japan Airlines, the Convair 880 was deemed a giant flop and joined a long list of “what if?” stories in aviation history.
Potential Travel Destination: To the land of No Where! Completely taken out of commission, the Convair 880 isn’t going anywhere these days. But, if you want to take a peek inside this particular 880 aptly named the Lisa Marie, you’ll have a take a trip to visit the King, the King of Rock and Roll that is, since this private jet is proudly on display at Elvis’ Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee. Now that’s a real “return to sender,” don’t you agree?
#37 – Boeing 707 ($4.3 Million)
Following up the Convair 880 with its fiercest competitor, the Boeing 707 dominated the commercial market after making its debut in 1958 bringing new luxury to flying. With little more than 1,000 being produced until production ended in 1979, the 707 was incredibly popular throughout the 1970s thanks to its luxurious cabin that could seat anywhere between 140 to 220 passengers at a time. Over the years, the 707 has been modified for air, cargo and private use with the most famous being the 138B, which is owned by “Greased Lightning” himself, John Travolta.
Potential Travel Destination: The Sunshine State! Staying busy in Hollywood over the last four decades with hits like Grease, Pulp Fiction, Hairspray and Wild Hogs, the 62-year-old John Travolta has somehow managed to make time for his favorite pastime—flying. When he’s not filming or spending time with his wife, actress Kelly Preston, and their children, you can find Travolta soaring through the skies in his Boeing 138B with only one destination in mind—Florida’s eastern coast where his vacation home awaits complete with two private runways and plenty of sunshine.
#36 – Challenger 600 ($5 Million)
First produced by Canadair in 1978 and based on the original business jet design by American inventor and aircraft developer Bill Lear, Canadair air used the Lear name to promote the Challenger 600 as the newest and only aircraft in the industry with a “walk-about cabin.” Now produced by Bombardier Aerospace, over 1,000 models have been produced to include dozens of variations on the original all of which carry on the distinctive double slotted hinged flap design that makes them instantly recognizable in the air.
Potential Travel Destination: The Holy Land! Bestselling Christian author and speaker Joyce Meyer owns several homes across the country but she managed to shock even her most loyal fans when she took her extravagance to the next level and purchased a Challenger 600 for $5 million. Despite the initial backlash, Meyer didn’t bat an eye years later when she upgraded to a $10 million private Gulfstream G-IV claiming that she needed a bigger plane to take her to the Holy Land to fulfill her lifelong dreams as a minister and Charismatic Christian teacher. It seems like a first class ticket on a commercial liner would’ve turned fewer heads!
#35 – De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter ($7 Million)
Following up the de Havilland Beaver from earlier on our list brings us to the Beaver’s distant cousin—the Canada DH-6 Twin Otter. Introduced in 1965 by de Havilland Canada, around 900 planes were produced between 1965 and 1988 before the military plane known for its short takeoffs and landings was temporarily retired. Revived once again in 2008 with the Series 400 and still in production today as the Viking Air DHC-6 Twin Otter, the plane is widely popular with commercial skydiving operations and is used by the United States Army and Air Force for parachute training.
Potential Travel Destination: Miami, The Magic City! The Twin Otter makes regular stops in New York City but always seems to find its way back to Miami, Florida. Why? This particular Otter is owned by 78-year-old businessman and entrepreneur Wayne Huizenga who just so happens to own the Miami Dolphins of the NFL, the Florida Panthers of the NHL and the Miami Marlins of MLB. When it comes to splurging, what’s a few million dollars when you’re already worth an astonishing $2.6 billion?
#34 – Emivest SJ30 ($8.3 Million)
Do you have the need for speed? If so, you’re sure to fall in love with the fastest jet in the light jet class, the Emivest SyberJet 30. Originally designed by Texas aeronautical engineer Edward Swearingen for efficiency to accommodate six to eight passengers and the pilot, the project was almost abandoned for financial reasons before Lockheed offered funding in the late 1980s. By 1991, the first SJ-30 was complete and made its highly anticipated debut on February 13 at the Paris Air Show where its incredible speed wowed everyone on the ground. But, is the SJ-30’s wow factor really worth $8.3 million?
Potential Travel Destination: Sky high at the speed of light—ok, maybe just really, really fast! The b-e-a-utiful SJ30 marks the final appearance on our list for Morgan Freeman who played God himself in the 2003 hit Bruce Almighty. Obviously the most expensive plane in Freeman’s entire fleet, the SJ30 would undoubtedly get him closer to heaven than any of Hollywood’s special effects since it averages a speed of 559 miles per hour at an altitude of 41,000 feet! Looks like the famed actor, producer and narrator has a need for speed as well!
#33 – Embraer Phenom ($9 Million)
Living up to its name, the Embraer Phenom is exactly that despite having a fairly young legacy since its first flight in July 2007. Truly hitting it out of the park with its twin engine design and enough room for seven passengers, Embraer’s Phenom 100 wasn’t quite big enough and left pilots asking Embraer to make it bigger. Still adding to the fleet of over 330 Phenom 100s in the air today, Embraer introduced its ten-passenger Phenom 300 in 2009 that instantly became a commercial hit in the United States and the United Kingdom as well as among big wigs needing to jet around from city to city.
Potential Travel Destination: Rio de Janeiro! With the 2016 Summer Olympics scheduled to start soon, the Embraer Phenom is the perfect plane for a quick trip to Rio to support your country’s favorite athletes! Why? Embraer is a Brazilian aerospace manufacturer headquartered in Sao Paulo and Sau Jose dos Campos making Rio a short flight away for the $9 million Phenom! Are you ready for an adventure to the Marvelous City—because we sure are!
32 – Falcon 2000 ($9 Million)
It’s a bird, it’s a plane…it’s a Falcon! First introduced in 1993, the Dassault Falcon 2000 is a French Business jet that measures over 66 feet in length with a 63.5-foot wingspan and enough room for eight passengers and two crew members. Cruising at speeds of 530 miles per hour and originally outfitted with turbofans, the Falcon 2000 is still being produced today with over 300 in the fleet as well as nearly a dozen different variations including the 2000 EX EASy and the 2000 MRA that is used by the Japanese Coast Guard.
Potential Travel Destination: Paris! Oui, oui! Flying to The City of Light has never been easier or classier thanks to the luxurious Falcon 2000. Founded in 1929 and headquartered in the City of Love, Dassault Aviation is one of the biggest employers in the country with nearly 12,000 employees who are dedicated to manufacturing state of the art aircraft for military, regional and business use to clients around the globe.
#31 – Learjet 60XR ($13 Million)
First introduced by Bombardier Aerospace in 1990, the Learjet 60 midsize was billed as the newest business jet in the industry with twin engines and room for four passengers. Meeting widespread success early on, Bombardier decided to expand on their initial design and launched the 60XR variant in 2005 offering room for more passengers, better breaks and dozens of extra bells and whistles making it an instant favorite among private jet enthusiasts. However, not even the Learjet could soar past the recession in 2012 as production was put on hold with 400 jets in service.
Potential Travel Destination: You name it, the 60XR will go! There isn’t a particular celebrity who currently owns or prefers traveling around in the 60XR, but just give it time! The few Americans who own these powerful birds are likely millionaires and billionaires whose business ventures take them to big cities like Atlanta, New York and Washington, D.C. where they’re more than thrilled to close the next major deal. After all, a $13 million plane won’t pay for itself!
#30 – Hawker 850XP ($14 Million)
When industry leaders like British Aerospace, Raytheon and Hawker Beechcraft come together to form a midsized twin engine jet like the Hawker 850XP, you know it won’t disappoint. First introduced in 1983, the original Hawker 800 series was a huge hit with over 200 sales in the first five years that inspired a handful of variations including the expensive, state-of-the-art 850XP. With nearly a 55-foot wingspan and room for up to 13 passengers, the 850XP has proven time and time again that the sky is the limit with a maximum speed of 514 miles per hour and a range of over 3,000 miles that will take you nearly anywhere in the United States.
Potential Travel Destination: Across the pond! Despite production shutting down in 2013 with 650 crafts in the fleet, the 850XP is still in active service today and is primarily used by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the Brazilian Air Force and the Royal Saudi Air Force. Yet, because British Aerospace is headquartered in Farnborough, Hampshire, we imagine that the Hawker 850XP is perfectly content jetting around the United Kingdom where big cities like London are considered home away from home.
#29 – Hawker 4000 ($22 Million)
Taking air travel to the next level, Hawker Beechcraft and the Raytheon Aircraft Company teamed up once again in 2001 to debut their newest super-midsize jet known as the Hawker Horizon. Rebranding it as the Hawker 4000 as an improvement to the Hawker 1000, only 73 of the newest models were produced between 2011 and 2013 with the first official delivery made in 2010 to a customer in China. Today, the future of the Hawker 4000 is unknown since Hawker-Beechcraft filed bankruptcy in 2013 and is now owned by the Beechcraft Corporation.
Potential Travel Destination: Spain for a quick round of golf! Winning over 20 international tournaments and spending the majority of his 17-year professional career in the top 10 ranking, Sergio Garcia decided to treat himself when he purchased a Hawker 4000 for $22 million. Now traveling the world in style, the Spaniard may not have won any of golf’s major championships but he’s somehow managed to seal his fate as the highest earning golfer on the PGA Tour without a win with career earnings reaching well over $43 million. That’s a victory in itself!
#28 – Airbus A310s ($25 Million)
Easily one of the most popular planes over the last 20 years, the Airbus A310 has seen over 250 planes come off the production line from 1983 to 1998. Though the mid-to-long range aircraft is no longer in production, there are still dozens of companies like FedEx Express, Mahan Air and Air Transat who rely on A310s with even a few private pilots claiming them as their aircraft of choice. And why not? With more than enough room to spare, it would take 275 of your closest family and friends to reach max capacity on this high-flying bird!
Potential Travel Destination: The Emerald Isle! Known for belting out hits like “Beautiful Day,” “Song for Someone” and “With or Without You,” Bono spared no expense when he paid $25 million for an Airbus A310 to travel in style with his band, U2. In true Bono fashion of “go big or go home,” the lead singer forked over a small portion of his $600 million net worth to have the jet customized with the band’s logo on the side. How’s that for making a grand entrance on both the stage and the runway?
#27 – Embraer Legacy 650 ($30 Million)
Having already seen the incredible Embraer Phenom, the Brazilian manufacturer does it again with the Legacy 650. A family of commercial jets, the Legacy 600 series was introduced in 2002 with production of over 230 jets that are currently found in over 20 countries. As a result of the Legacy’s early success, Embraer debuted its longer-range version—the Legacy 650—in 2009 that boasted a greater traveling distance for up to eight passengers. But is it truly worth $30 million?
Potential Travel Destination: Asia’s World City—Hong Kong! Jackie Chan seems to think the Legacy 650 is worth every penny of the $30 million price tag and actually coughed up the funds to purchase the jet and had it painted with the colors of China’s flag. But, the award-winning martial artist, actor, director and producer didn’t stop there! He even paid extra to have his personal logo emblazoned on the side! Obviously one of his favorite luxuries, the 62-year-old stuntman is living large with a $350 million net worth and plenty of time to travel back home to his native Hong Kong.
#26 – Bombardier Challenger 850 ($32 Million)
With only enough room for 14 passengers, the Bombardier Challenger 850 might not be the biggest aircraft in the sky but it’s the largest super-midsize aircraft Bombardier Aerospace has ever made. First making its way into the sky in 2006, the Challenger 850 is still in high demand today thanks to its transcontinental range that allows it to travel over 3,200 miles before needing to refuel. Whether you want to take your friends to Las Vegas for the weekend or jet overseas, the Challenger 850 is perfect but only if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one of these bad boys.
Potential Travel Destination: The Empire State! This $32 million version of the Challenger 850 makes frequent stops in New York since former Destiny’s Child star Beyonce Knowles spared no expense on Jay Z for father’s day to ensure her famous husband could always fly in style. Considered the most powerful and influential couple in entertainment today, it makes sense that the award-winning singer, songwriter, producer and businesswoman wouldn’t settle on an ugly tie for a world renowned rapper like Jay Z. Seriously, what’s $32 million when you’re already worth $450 million and counting?
#25 – Gulfstream III ($37 Million)
Originally known as the Grumman Gulfstream and featuring state-of-the-art military variants that could almost take it into outer space, Gulfstream Aerospace redesigned the plane to make it more passenger and commercial friendly. Releasing the Gulfstream III in 1979 and marketed as having a longer wingspan and room for 19 passengers, just over 200 models were made until production halted in 1986. Used primarily today throughout the United States as well as in Italy and India, the business jets don’t come cheap with a $37 million price tag.
Potential Travel Destination: Down south to Atlanta, Georgia! Making trips between Los Angeles and Atlanta has never been easier for award-winning actor, director and playwright Tyler Perry. Worth $400 million thanks to characters like Madea as well as his work on series such as Tyler Perry’s House of Payne and The Haves and the Have Nots, the Georgia native happily spent $37 million on a custom Gulfstream III to ensure complete comfort when traveling back and forth with his girlfriend Gelila Bekele and their two-year-old son, Aman. Who said Madea never gets what she wants?
#24 – Dassault Falcon 900LX ($39 Million)
“Every inch is legend” on the Falcon 900LX, at least that’s what Dassault Aviation said when they released their latest craft in 2012 debuting the newest winglets in the series. In addition, this fuel efficient machine is a pilot’s dream to fly clocking in at 66 feet long with a 63.5-foot wingspan and plenty of room for 12 passengers. As if it couldn’t get any better, its range is one of the best in the industry with the ability to easily make the trip from the eastern United States all the way to India in a single flight!
Potential Travel Destination: I see London, I see France… The Falcon 900LX takes us back to Dassault Aviation’s headquarters in Paris, France. The top choice for numerous French officials traveling throughout the country on business, the 900LX has a solid reputation of safety and style that has also made it to the go-to plane for the French, Nigerian and Royal Malaysian Air Force as well as the Japanese Coast Guard.
#23 – Gulfstream IV-SP ($41 Million)
Returning to American-made jets, the Gulfstream IV-SP is a variant of the Gulfstream IV that has been in production since its debut in 1985. Produced at the Gulfstream plant in Savannah, Georgia, the SP variant was created in 2001 and carried on the IV’s innovative wing design and its signature glass cockpit. But, as Gulfstream is known to do, they immediately started working to outdo themselves with a follow up to the IV-SP months after it was released, a design we’ll see later on our list as the Gulfstream 450.
Potential Travel Destination: Southern Cali! Whether you know him as Maverick from Top Gun, as Jerry Maguire or as secret agent Ethan Hunt from Mission: Impossible, 54-year-old Tom Cruise definitely has a need for speed. Accustomed to living large as one of the highest grossing stars in Hollywood, Cruise gave new meaning to “Show me the money!” when he purchased a Gulfstream IV-SP for $41 million. Although he uses it primarily for jetting around Southern California for business with Hollywood and the Church of Scientology, he’s definitely traveling in style!
#22 – Global Express XRS ($42 Million)
Yet another aircraft from France’s Bombardier Aerospace, the Global Express XRS is designed for transcontinental flights where speed, comfort and fuel efficiency are key. Making its debut in 1993 and still in service today, there are currently 600 of the Express XRS in the fleet with each offering plenty of space for 13 passengers and up to four crew members. Considering how far it can travel, its speed is just as impressive averaging 560 miles per hour which puts the sting out of those excruciatingly long transcontinental flights that can last anywhere from 12 hours or more!
Potential Travel Destination: Back to the Windy City! The “Queen of All Media” Oprah Winfrey didn’t think twice about spending $42 million on a Global Express XRS when she moved her famous Harpo Studios from her native Chicago to Southern California. A millionaire at the age of 32 and now worth $3.1 billion three decades later at 62 years old, Winfrey’s rags to riches story is one of the best known in Hollywood after 30 years on The Oprah Winfrey Show where she shared her life while interviewing some of the most famous people in the world.
#21 – Dassault Falcon 5X ($45 Million)
Taking a break from traveling down memory lane for a brief glimpse into the future, next on our list is Dassault’s next foray into the aviation world—the Falcon 5X. Scheduled for its first flight in 2017 with its official introduction in 2020, the Falcon 5X is projected to be a 16-passenger long-range business jet capable of traveling up to 5,200 miles without the need to refuel. Faster than even the XRS with speeds of up to 600 miles per hour while cruising, the Falcon 5X has been in the development phase since 2006 with its first unveiling in 2013.
Potential Travel Destination: Nowhere, yet—but give it time! The Falcon 5X’s first flight was scheduled several years ago but was officially delayed in January 2016 after Dassault confirmed that engine technicalities would result in a two-year halt on production for redesign. There’s still hope, however! If everything goes as planned, the Falcon 5X will make its debut next year leaving millionaires and billionaires around the globe waiting another three years before spending a whopping $45 million just to claim one of Dassault’s prized birds as their own.
#20 – Dassault Falcon 900EX ($45 Million)
Sticking with Dassault’s Falcon series, the Falcon 900EX is yet another variation of the 900 series that was first introduced in 1984 as an improvement of the Falcon 50 starting with the Falcon 900-B and including the 900EX, 900C and 900DX. Considered an upgrade like an iPhone 6s compared to an iPhone 6c, the 900EX has numerous behind the scenes enhancements such as engine and range improvements as well as an all-glass flight deck that reflect its sky high price tag of $45 million.
Potential Travel Destination: The British Virgin Islands! Despite being a French plane, Sir Richard Branson—the founder of Virgin Group, Ltd.—only wanted the best when traveling from his conglomerate’s London headquarters back to his home in the Virgin Islands. As the mastermind behind huge brands like Virgin Megastores, Virgin Atlantic and the Virgin Records music label, $45 million for a private jet was just pocket change for the 66-year-old British billionaire otherwise known as Old Beardie.
#19 – Gulfstream V ($48 Million)
One of the most popular aircraft manufacturers on our list, Gulfstream Aerospace debuted one of their most impressive models in 1997—the Gulfstream V. Officially released for public use in 1998 and still used today with nearly 200 in the entire fleet, the Gulfstream V measures 96 feet long and has a 93-foot wingspan with accommodations for 14 passengers and four crew members. Of course, on this particular Gulfstream V, all seriousness ends on the tarmac as the star of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective hops on board where he’s been known to tell jokes at 51,000 feet.
Potential Travel Destination: Oh Canada! While you might not expect a legendary comedian like Jim Carrey to have his own private jet, Carrey actually dropped nearly $50 million on a Gulfstream V just for fun! The 54-year-old star of Dumb and Dumber, The Mask and Man on the Moon gets a huge kick out of hiring an experienced flight crew to take him and 15 of his closest friends everywhere from Hollywood and New York to his native Ontario, Canada and beyond!
#18 – Bombardier BD-700 ($45 Million)
Speaking of Canada… Commonly known as a Bombardier Global Express but designated as BD-700, the Express is the original model in a fleet of 600 ultra long-range business jets produced by the Canadian manufacturer. Introduced in 1993 and making its first flight in 1996, the BD-700 has seen numerous modifications over the last 20 years to reflect its application with the United States Air Force while ensuring it ranks above industry competitors like the Airbus Corporate Jet, the Boeing Business Jet and the Gulfstream 550/650.
Potential Travel Destination: Silicon Valley! Microsoft founder, billionaire investor and business magnate Bill Gates turns to the Bombardier BD-700 as his jet of choice when it comes to business matters! Forking over a cool $45 million (out of his $78.3 billion net worth), Gates uses the jet to fly around the world promoting the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation since officially stepping down from his full-time position at Microsoft in 2008. Needless to say, one of his favorite stops is to check in at Silicon Valley before heading north to his luxurious estate in Medina, Washington.
#17 – Embraer Lineage 1000 ($50 Million)
If you can afford to purchase one of the twenty-one Embraer Lineage 1000s made by the Brazilian manufacturer since 2007, then you’re in rare company. Measuring approximately the same length as a Boeing 737, the Lineage 1000 is far more luxurious with just enough seating for 19 passengers in comparison to the 737 that crams 215 people together for yet another cheap and cramped flight. Now you know exactly why billionaires are willing to pay millions to have their own private planes!
Potential Travel Destination: Mexico! This particular Embraer Lineage 1000 makes frequent stops in Guadalajara, Mexico since it belongs to Mexican businessman and film producer Jorge Carlos Vergara. Having amassed a net worth of $1.5 billion as the founder of one of the top 200 corporations in Mexico known as Grupo Omnilife, the 61-year-old spent $50 million on a Lineage 1000 to add to his large fleet of private jets. How else will the soccer club owner travel to check on his teams not to mention his dozens of real estate investments around the world?
#16 – Gulfstream G450 ($50 Million)
An improvement on the Gulfstream IV-SP from earlier on our list, the Gulfstream G450 is otherwise known as the Gulfstream GIV-X and made its debut out of the Savannah, Georgia manufacturer in 2004 sporting a longer fuselage and a larger door. While the G400 series made its first official appearance in 1985 for business and military use, the G450 variant completely took over thanks to its twin Rolls-Royce turbofans, seating for 19, glass cockpit and an impressive range of 5,000 miles. What more could you need?
Potential Travel Destination: From sea to shining sea! The G450 made its private sale debut in 2015 but we haven’t found any celebrity or billionaire willing to sign the $50 million check to take one home—or at least not publicly, yet. While we’re certain a few purchases are already in the works, it’s only a matter of time before billionaires from around the globe start lining up to take this beautiful Gulfstream for a spin!
#15 – Sukhoi Superjet 100 ($50 Million)
One of the biggest private jets on our list with enough seating for 108 passengers, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 is manufactured by Russia’s United Aircraft Company and was designed to compete internationally with the Embraer E-Jet and the Bombardier C Series. Instantly successful after its introduction in April 2011, the Russian Superjet measures 98 feet in length and has a 91-foot wingspan with the ability to cruise at 511 miles per hour making it one of Russia’s fastest modern fly-by-wire regional jets.
Potential Travel Destination: Russia, of course! Since it’s manufactured in Moscow and primarily used by Russian airlines like Aeroflot and Gazpromavia, the Sukhoi Superjet 100 is accustomed to flying over the largest country in the world especially when it comes to quickly transporting a large number of passengers from point A to point B. Of course, we imagine there are a few Russian billionaires who aren’t shy about spending $50 million to have their own private parties flying high at 41,000 feet.
#14 – Gulfstream G550 ($61 Million)
Barely edged out by its bigger brother just ahead on our list, the Gulfstream G550 was created in 2003 for business owners although it’s seen widespread military use in both the United States and Israel over the last 12 years. A variant of the G500 series, the G550 has a much larger fuel capacity with room for up to 19 passengers and manages to beat the Russian Superjet 100 when it comes to speed with an impressive cruising range of 562 miles per hour. Looks like the G550 brings new meaning to the phrase, “Time is money.”
Potential Travel Destination: Jupiter Island, Florida! Known as one of the most successful golfers of all time and one of the highest paid athletes in the world, Tiger Woods didn’t give a second thought to spending $61 million on his own Gulfstream G550. Why would he when he’s already worth $700 million? Traveling in style to tournaments all over the world before making his way back to his Jupiter Island estate, Woods may not be on the top of his game these days but the 40-year-old will always be a golf legend.
#13 – Gulfstream G650 ($65 Million)
While most of the planes in the top 15 are fairly sizeable, the Gulfstream G650 is the exception. Instead of being classified as a jumbo jet, the G650 is on the small side with room for 11 to 18 passengers making it better known for its speed. Introduced as a speedster in 2008, Gulfstream Aerospace is still producing the G650 today with 165 currently in the fleet with more to come since business owners instantly fell in love with its ability to travel at nearly a Mach 1 speed.
Potential Travel Destination: Back to the Big Apple! The G650 belongs to notable fashion designer, businessman and philanthropist Ralph Lauren of New York City. Obviously with a keen eye for style when it comes to both clothes and airlines, Lauren has an estimated net worth of $8.2 billion and is among the richest people in the world who, coincidentally enough, is also known for his extensive collection of rare automobiles. Proving that luxury doesn’t stop at the catwalk, the G650 is perfect for Lauren’s frequent trips to London and Paris to debut the hottest trends in fashion.
#12 – Bombardier Global 8000 ($66 Million)
When it comes to “going green” and helping the environment, the Bombardier Global 8000 does its fair share with the lowest fuel burning and emissions in the entire family of ultra long-range business jets. Still in development today and projected to fly further than any other jet in the industry with the ability to connect Sydney to Los Angeles and Hong Kong to New York, the eight-passenger plane was initially scheduled for introduction in 2017 but has since been delayed anywhere from two to three years.
Potential Travel Destination: Hong Kong, New York, Sydney—you name it! With its debut scheduled for 2019 at the earliest, only time will tell just how far the Bombardier Global 8000 is willing to go. Although, because it’s anticipated to be the greenest aircraft on the market, we expect to see big names like Al Gore, Angelina Jolie, Leonardo DiCaprio or Bono show immediate interest in the jet as a way to take their environmentalism and commitment to greener living one step further!
#11 – Boeing 737 ($80 Million)
One of the most frequently used planes in commercial flying with over 9,000 made in its 50-year run since 1966, nothing compares to the Boeing 737 pictured here. Typically used by Southwest, United and American Airlines and offering room for anywhere between 85 and 215 passengers, this particular 737 has been completely remodeled with its seating replaced with couches, business desks and leather chairs. Estimated to cost around $80 million with $25 million in renovations, the passenger count was reduced to accommodate 19 people on nonstop flights lasting up to 12 hours.
Potential Travel Destination: Unknown! While we’re not certain who bought this decked out 737 since Boeing kept the $80 million transaction hush hush, all we know is that it was debuted in Shanghai, China where an American businessman made the purchase of a lifetime. The Washington-based manufacturer has done a great job at protecting the buyer’s privacy but somehow let it slip that the buyer also had another Boeing in his hangar, which means it just be someone we’ve already seen on our list!
#10 – Airbus ACJ319 ($80 Million)
Much like Airbus’s other luxury jets, the ACJ319 is completely customizable and can comfortably seat up to 39 passengers in a variety of configurations. A member of the Airbus A320 family of short-to-medium range commercial airlines competing directly with the 737, the A319 was Airbus’s response to a smaller version of the A320 that offers removable fuel tanks in the cargo compartment as well as a reconfigurable corporate cabin that makes it even more appealing for clients with a variety of needs.
Potential Travel Destination: London! Chances are if you can afford to spend $80 million on the ACJ319, then you’re in the same inner circle as Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Offering an en-suite bedroom located at the rear of the aircraft, whoever purchases this corporate jet really will get a bang for their buck by not having to spend extra money on a hotel. Looks like this Airbus is in the habit of making dreams come true for anyone who’s dreamt of sleeping in the clouds!
#9 – Boeing 767-200 ($82 Million)
If you’ve ever traveled over 1,000 miles on a commercial flight, chances are you’ve flown on a Boeing 767. Making the top 10 on our list, the Boeing 767-200 is the original model in the series that first entered service with United Airlines in 1982. Since then, over 128 aircraft have joined the fleet with 49 in commercial service as of 2015. But what about the private sector? It turns out that one of the spacious Boeing 767-200 belongs to the founders of the world’s largest search engine. Can you take a guess or do you have to Google it?
Potential Travel Destination: Cal-i-forn-i-a! Despite making hundreds of trips around the world, the Boeing 767-200 always finds its way back to California’s Menlo Park where Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page have set up shop. With Google worth $498 billion, the $82 million price tag on the 767-200 was nothing for the computer scientists especially when it came to completely customizing the jet with a massive reduction in seating from 180 to 50 to ensure everyone’s comfort. After all, who wants to Google when they’re cramped on an airplane?
#8 – Boeing 767-33A ($85 Million)
Continuing to expand the Boeing family tree with the 767-33A, this long-range twin engine jet airliner has been gutted even more than the Google plane as it’s $85 million price comes completely customized with gold and chestnut inlays fit for a king. Including everything from a dining room and a meeting room as well as an anti-missile defense system, the exterior paint job alone will set you back a few million dollars. So who can afford this type of luxury?
Potential Travel Destination: Russia and the United Kingdom! The Boeing 767-33A spends the majority of its time in London where Russian businessman, investor and politician Roman Abramovich calls home. Ranked as the 12th richest man in Russia with a net worth of $7.8 billion, Abramovich owns the private investment firm known as Millhouse LLC but is best known beyond Russia as the owner of the Chelsea Football Club and the Premiere League football team. Needless to say, spending $85 million on a jet to travel between his two homes was a quick decision for one of the richest men in the world!
#7 – Boeing 757 ($100 Million)
The largest single aisle passenger aircraft made by Boeing, the Washington-based company produced over 1,000 Boeing 757s from 1981 to 2004, all of which were complete with a glass cockpit, turbofan engines and seating for up to 295 passengers. With the ability to land on short runways and reach higher altitudes because of its innovative design, the 757 became massively popular with Delta, United and American Airlines as well as FedEx Express who customized the aircraft to meet its cargo hauling needs.
Potential Travel Destination: New York, New York! Despite the $100 million price tag, 2016 Republican Presidential nominee Donald Trump purchased the Boeing 757 secondhand from Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. The 70-year-old chairman of The Trump Organization spent millions of dollars more to emblazon nearly every surface with his signature gold in addition to adding the Trump logo. Undeniably using the jet on the campaign trail as well as to check in on his numerous properties around the world, the billionaire business magnate might get to upgrade to Air Force One in 2017, you never know!
#6 – Boeing 767-277 ($140 Million)
Adding to the list of Boeings, the Boeing 767 has actually been in production since 1981 when it became the company’s first airline with a two-crew glass cockpit and the first wide-body twinjet. Since then, over 1,000 have been added to the fleet with the majority used by commercial airlines like Delta, United, American and UPS with even a few stragglers in the private sector. A quick glance at the 767-277 pictured here is a dead giveaway that this isn’t your average Delta flight thanks to its oversized seats that offer more room than any first class ticket ever imagined!
Potential Travel Destination: Dallas, Texas and Los Angeles, California! Spending the majority of its time traveling between the Lone Star State and the Golden State, this Boeing 767-277 belongs to businessman and investor Mark Cuban. The owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and a regular on the hit series Shark Tank, the 58-year-old Cuban is always looking for the next deal that will increase his $3.2 billion net worth not to mention the opportunity to add a few more bells and whistles to his $140 million private jet!
#5 – Boeing 747-8 VIP ($150 Million)
Recognized as the largest commercial aircraft built in the United States and as the longest passenger aircraft in the world at over 250 feet long, the Boeing 747-8 made its official debut in 2011 with production beginning three years earlier in 2008. Continuing to add to the fleet of 104 even today, the Boeing 747-8 has a maximum seating capacity of 605 passengers with a wingspan of over 224 feet and dozens of other features that attracted the United States Air Force to deem it the newest upgrade for Air Force One after retiring the former Boeing VC-25.
Potential Travel Destination: Washington, D.C. and beyond! With the 2016 Presidential election well underway, it’s safe to say that either Republican nominee Donald Trump or Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton will see the introduction of the $150 million Boeing 747-8 as the newest Air Force One. An icon of American democracy and power, the 747-8 will take the President around the world while serving as a mobile command center that offers the comforts of home complete with over 4,000 square feet of space including a Presidential suite, numerous offices, as well as an operating room, dining room and conference area.
#4 – Boeing 747-430 ($233 Million)
If you’ve got millions to spend, the Boeing 747-430 just might entice you with its accommodations for over 200 passengers as well as its two-crew glass cockpit, fuel efficient engines and a completely redesigned interior. While the basic 747-400 model has a maximum capacity of 660 passengers and is commonly used by British Airways and United Airlines, the 747-430 pictured here is undeniably a private jet thanks to its extravagant gold and crystal interior that’s a far cry from any transcontinental flight we’ve ever been on!
Potential Travel Destination: Brunei, on the island of Borneo! This decked out Boeing 747-430 belongs to Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei since October 1967. Ranked among the wealthiest individuals in the world, the 70-year-old Bolkiah’s net worth is estimated at an upwards of $20 billion which makes a $233 million price tag on a private jet seem like a drop in the bucket for a Sultan who spends the majority of his time traveling around the world.
#3 – Boeing VC-25 ($325 Million)
All Hail the Chief! The most famous plane in America on our list is the Boeing VC-25, otherwise known as Air Force One. Taking its first flight in 1987, the VC-25 was introduced for presidential use on August 23, 1990 and has served a long history of United States Presidents as “The White House” in the sky. Only deemed “Air Force One” when the President is on board, the current VC-25 has given every penny of its $325 million worth over the last 26 years and will soon be replaced by Boeing’s latest model, which we saw earlier on the list, the 747-8.
Potential Travel Destination: Washington, D.C. and then home sweet home! Despite its future retirement, the current VC-25 still calls Washington, D.C. home and will continue to serve President Barack Obama and his family until the next President takes office in January 2017. At that time, the former President and his family will take their last flight in a VC-25 designated not as Air Force One but as a special mission since a new President has been elected into the Oval Office.
#2 – Airbus A340-300 ($350 Million)
If you’re looking for range and customization, the Airbus A340-300 delivers in spades with seating for up to 300 passengers in a three-class cabin design. The closest competitor to the Boeing 777-200ER, the A340-300 was first introduced into service in March 1993 with over 160 in operation today with only one that costs far more than the rest. The Airbus we’re referring to has a personal touch that only a billionaire could afford with plush seating and an extravagant exterior that can be seen for miles.
Potential Travel Destination: Moscow, Russia! Yet another Russian billionaire to make our list, the second most expensive private jet in the world belongs to Soviet-born business magnate Alisher Usmanov. Building his $13 billion net worth and ranked as Russia’s richest man and the second richest in the United Kingdom, the 62-year-old Usmanov has built his wealth as the owner and investor of metal and mining operations around the world. In fact, it’s easier to tell you what companies he doesn’t own rather than to list all the ones he does! Needless to say, buying a $350 million jet wasn’t a question when it came to convenience for this international businessman!
#1 – Airbus A380 ($500 Million)
If you thought the Airbus A340-300 was impressive, think again! The Airbus A380 is the world’s largest passenger airliner that offers over 5,000 square feet of floor space with seating for over 800 people depending on the configuration. Requiring airliners like Emirates and Singapore Airlines to upgrade their facilities to accommodate the massive aircraft, the A380 has a cruising speed of 560 miles per hour and boasts the second longest nonstop scheduled flight in the world making transcontinental travel a breeze for those wanting to avoid the hassle of connecting flights and potential layovers.
Potential Travel Destination: Saudi Arabia! Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal of Saudi Arabia just might put Donald Trump to shame when it comes to his love of gold and his $500 million Airbus A380. Spending $300 million on the plane alone, the 61-year-old bin Talal forked over another $200 million to renovate the plane to reflect his love of—you guessed it—gold! Proving that the sky is the limit when it comes to living large, bin Talal just might have a heart of gold as well after announcing in 2015 that he plans to donate his entire fortune to charity before his death. As to whether or not that includes his lavish jet, we’ll just have to wait and see!