Elvis Presley’s Private Jet Finds a New Home at Auction
Elvis Presley’s iconic 1962 Lockheed 1329 Jetstar, once a symbol of luxury and rock ‘n’ roll history, has finally found a new owner. After being parked in the desert for nearly 40 years at the Roswell International Air Center in New Mexico, the jet was sold at auction for $260,000 on what would have been Elvis’ 88th birthday.
A Glimpse into Elvis’s Personal Life and Hobbies
Priscilla Presley was present at the Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction in Florida on January 8, where the sale of the jet took place. Speaking to the crowd, Priscilla fondly recalled Elvis’s love of collecting cars and planes, referring to these hobbies as “his joy.” Elvis had a passion for luxury travel and was known for his extensive collection of personal aircraft, including the Lockheed Jetstar.
The Jet’s Fascinating History
Elvis purchased the jet on December 22, 1976, for a hefty $840,000. Over the years, it became an integral part of his life, used to fly his TCB (Taking Care of Business) band, backup groups, manager Col. Tom Parker, and the Memphis Mafia to concerts and appearances across the United States.
Despite years of wear and tear, the jet remains a piece of aviation history. The exterior is weathered, showing signs of its long exposure to the elements, but the interior offers a retro glimpse into midcentury luxury travel.
Inside the Jet: A Touch of Luxury from the 60s
The plane’s interior, which seats up to nine people, is a throwback to the opulence of the 1960s. It features a red velvet-covered couch, swivel and reclining passenger seats, and wood paneling with gold-finish hardware. The entertainment center includes an RCA VCR player and cassette player, adding to the vintage feel.
Other amenities on the plane include a lavatory with a vanity, a galley with a meal-prep area, and a beverage dispenser, as well as a Kenmore microwave. These touches highlight the luxury travel experience that Presley enjoyed.
The Jet’s Last Owner
The last owner of the jet was Californian businessman Jim Gagliardi, who bought the aircraft at a 2017 auction for $430,000. Gagliardi had planned to use the jet as a customer attraction for a dealership he owned. However, he never followed through with his plans and never visited the plane in person, leaving it in New Mexico until its recent sale.
A New Chapter for Elvis’s Jet
The sale of Elvis Presley’s private jet marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the King of Rock and Roll’s personal legacy. Though the jet has changed hands, it continues to embody the spirit of Elvis’s glamorous lifestyle, reflecting his influence on music, culture, and luxury living