Elvis Presley wasn’t just the King of Rock and Roll; he was also a man of incredible taste and style that stretched far beyond his music. Whether it was his flashy stage outfits, his love for unique cars, or his iconic Graceland estate, everything Elvis touched had a flair for the extravagant. One of the lesser-known but equally impressive examples of his lavish lifestyle was his private jet. Purchased in 1962, this Lockheed Jetstar wasn’t just a means of transportation—it was a flying symbol of Elvis’s larger-than-life personality and love for luxury. He made sure the interior reflected his own unique taste.
The cabin was decked out in sophisticated wooden paneling, plush red velvet seats, and elegant carpeting, creating a warm yet opulent space that was unmistakably Elvis. For over three decades, this jet was in his possession, and although it became inactive after his untimely death in 1977, it remained a captivating piece of his legacy. While Elvis owned other planes, like his famous Convair 880 named “Lisa Marie” and another Jetstar called “Hound Dog II,” this particular aircraft was special because it embodied his private world, one where he could relax and enjoy the fruits of his success.
For years, the Lockheed Jetstar sat parked in Roswell, New Mexico, exposed to the elements. Its once-vibrant red exterior faded under the harsh sun and time’s passing, yet it remained in decent shape considering its age. For fans who passed by, it was a fascinating, albeit forgotten, relic of rock and roll history. But after decades of uncertainty about its future, the jet finally found a new owner. On January 8th, during the Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car auction in Florida, the aircraft sold for an impressive $260,000. The winning bid came in via phone, and the identity of the buyer has not been revealed. However, it’s clear this mysterious buyer now owns an incredible piece of Elvis Presley’s legacy—a symbol of rock history and glamour from a bygone era.
Stepping inside the jet, it’s easy to understand why Elvis was so fond of it. The red velvet upholstery gives the interior a cozy but regal feel, while the polished wooden paneling adds a sophisticated touch. Even after all these years, the interior exudes the vintage charm of the 1960s, taking you back to a time when Elvis ruled the stage and the airways. One of the standout features of the plane is the state-of-the-art television set, which was a huge deal back then. Today it might look outdated, but in the 60s, having a TV on a private jet was the height of luxury. The main cabin is spacious, designed with one large open area where guests could stretch out, relax, and enjoy the ride in style.
Towards the rear of the plane, you’ll find a small kitchen space. Although compact, it was fully functional and even included a microwave. While the appliance may not work anymore, it’s easy to imagine Elvis popping one of his famous peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwiches in there for a quick snack mid-flight. That little detail brings a personal, almost intimate, feel to the plane, making it more than just an artifact—it’s a piece of Elvis’s everyday life. The bathroom also reflects the luxury Elvis was known for, covered in velvet and featuring a stylish sink, far superior to the cramped facilities most people associate with air travel.
For Elvis fans, this jet offers a rare glimpse into his world away from the limelight. It’s not just an airplane; it’s a testament to his love for comfort, elegance, and the finer things in life. Its sale marks the end of its days as a roadside attraction and the beginning of a new chapter. Whether the new owner restores it, turns it into a museum exhibit, or keeps it as a private treasure, the jet remains a tangible connection to the King of Rock and Roll. Elvis’s passion for flying was well documented, and his private planes were as much a part of his persona as his music. They weren’t just vehicles—they were personal sanctuaries where he shared time with friends and family while traveling from concert to concert.
Owning a jet like this wasn’t just about luxury for Elvis; it was an extension of his identity. It represented his success, his creativity, and his endless pursuit of living life to its fullest. Decades after his death, Elvis’s influence continues to resonate worldwide, and artifacts like his jet help keep his legacy alive. Even though it no longer soars through the skies, it carries the enduring spirit of Elvis Presley. And for fans who adored him and his music, that’s more than enough to keep the legend flying high.
