Elvis Presley’s Luxurious Custom Jet: A Reflection of The King’s Unmatched Style
Renowned for more than his melodious voice and charismatic stage presence, Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, had a distinct taste in design and luxury, especially evident in his private jet.
The King’s Customized Lockheed Jetstar
In 1962, Elvis Presley commissioned a Lockheed Jetstar, customized to his unique preferences. The bespoke design featured mahogany panelling, lavish crimson velvet sofas, and plush carpeting, demonstrating Presley’s exceptional taste. The intricate detailing and grandeur of the jet’s interior would leave even the harshest critic in awe.
Presley’s plane was held in abeyance for over three decades after his death in 1977. Subsequently, it became a beloved roadside tourist attraction in Roswell, New Mexico.
However, a recent auction saw the jet selling to an anonymous telephone bidder, an ardent Elvis fan, for an impressive $260,000, further establishing the aircraft as a testament to Presley’s legacy and impeccable style.
The Epitome of Opulence in the Sky
Elvis and his father, Vernon Presley, must have been swept off their feet by the grandeur of their private jet during their first flight. No expense was spared to ensure a perfect travel experience, underscoring Elvis’s attention to detail, even in the sky. It’s no wonder the plane has become a significant part of his legacy.
Named “Lisa Marie” after Presley’s daughter, the jet lay dormant for over thirty years in a remote part of New Mexico. Despite the faded exterior, taking on a slight red hue over time, the aircraft remains in surprisingly good condition.
A Glimpse Inside The King’s Flying Palace
Stepping into the aircraft, one is instantly captivated by the lavish decor. Traditional oak panels adorn the interior walls, and the seats are covered in sumptuous crimson velvet, evoking a sense of extravagant comfort. It’s easy to imagine the King himself lounging in these seats, exuding style and luxury.
The spacious seating area, complete with ample legroom, provides comfort for passengers during the journey. Behind the main seating area is a small kitchen equipped with the essentials for food preparation, including a vintage microwave. One can picture Elvis preparing his famous peanut butter, mayonnaise, bacon, and banana sandwiches in this very space.
A Classic Element of Rock and Roll Legacy
The bathroom in the aircraft, albeit attractive, could benefit from additional touches of luxury, such as velvet furnishings and a sophisticated sink. However, it is far more spacious than typical charter aircraft bathrooms.
This aircraft exemplifies Elvis Presley’s legacy of unparalleled luxury and style, fortifying his status as the undisputed King of Rock and Roll.
Recently auctioned off at the Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction in Florida on January 8, the plane fetched a winning bid of $260,000.
The new owner chose to remain anonymous, bidding over the phone. This sale marks a significant chapter for this piece of aviation history, and we’re eagerly awaiting what’s next for this iconic plane.
Renowned not only for his legendary voice and electrifying performances, but also for his extravagant tastes, Elvis Presley embodied luxury in every aspect of his life. One of the most striking examples of this is his custom private jet, a Lockheed Jetstar, which exemplified his penchant for opulence and flair.
The King’s Customized Lockheed Jetstar
In 1962, Elvis Presley commissioned the design of a Lockheed Jetstar, tailored to reflect his unique style. The jet was a flying palace, featuring intricate mahogany paneling, lush crimson velvet sofas, and plush carpeting throughout the interior. Every detail of the aircraft exuded the essence of Elvis’s luxurious taste. The combination of rich textures and deep hues created an atmosphere of grandeur that perfectly matched the King’s larger-than-life persona.
Presley’s private jet remained parked for over three decades following his death in 1977, becoming an iconic roadside attraction in Roswell, New Mexico. The jet, despite its stationary years, continued to captivate fans who flocked to catch a glimpse of this symbol of Presley’s legendary lifestyle.
Sold to an Enthusiast for $260,000
Recently, this piece of Elvis memorabilia found a new home. At a January 2023 auction, an anonymous telephone bidder, an avid Elvis fan, purchased the jet for an impressive $260,000. The sale underscored the jet’s enduring connection to Presley’s legacy, and its status as a relic of his extravagant life.
A Symbol of Luxury in the Sky
Elvis and his father, Vernon Presley, were no strangers to luxury. On their first flight aboard the customized jet, they would have been immersed in an experience that was nothing short of regal. With no expense spared, the jet was designed to provide the ultimate travel experience, showcasing Elvis’s meticulous attention to detail—even while in the air.
Fittingly, the jet was named “Lisa Marie” after his beloved daughter. Despite decades of inactivity in a remote New Mexico location, the aircraft remains in surprisingly good condition, with its once-pristine exterior now slightly weathered by time, taking on a subtle reddish hue.
A Glimpse Inside The King’s Flying Palace
Upon entering the aircraft, one is immediately struck by the lavish decor. The traditional oak panels and crimson velvet upholstery evoke a sense of luxury, offering a glimpse into the world of Presley’s high-flying lifestyle. It’s easy to imagine Elvis relaxing in one of the oversized, comfortable seats, surrounded by the opulence that defined his existence.
The spacious seating area was designed for maximum comfort, allowing passengers to stretch out and enjoy the journey. Behind the main seating space, a small kitchen was equipped with all the essentials for preparing food mid-flight. One can easily envision Elvis using the kitchen to whip up one of his famous peanut butter, mayonnaise, bacon, and banana sandwiches—his go-to snack.
An Element of Rock and Roll Legacy
Even the bathroom aboard the aircraft reflects Elvis’s taste for luxury. Though simple, it stands apart from the standard airplane lavatories of its time, offering more space and a touch of sophistication. Velvet furnishings and a stylish sink further elevate the bathroom’s aesthetic, making it fit for the King of Rock and Roll.
A New Chapter for an Iconic Jet
The Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction in Florida, where the jet was sold, marked a significant moment in aviation and music history. As the jet changes hands, it continues to be a symbol of Presley’s unmatched flair for the finer things in life. Fans and collectors alike will eagerly await the next chapter for this iconic plane, wondering what its future holds and how it will continue to represent the timeless legacy of Elvis Presley.
