Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, was not only known for his incredible singing talent but also for his impeccable taste and design. One prime example of his exquisite style is his customized jet, a Lockheed Jetstar model built to his specifications, which he acquired in 1962. The interior of this aircraft is a testament to his grandeur, featuring stunning mahogany paneling, lavish crimson velvet couches, and luxurious carpeting that would impress even the most discerning critic.
After Elvis’s passing in 1977, his airplane remained inactive for over three decades until it found a home as a popular tourist attraction on the road in Roswell, New Mexico. However, recently, this iconic symbol of Elvis’s legacy was auctioned off in Florida for a staggering $260,000 to a passionate Elvis enthusiast.
Elvis and his father, Vernon Presley, must have been filled with joy and awe as they ascended to the sky in their private plane. No expense was spared in providing the perfect travel experience. Even in the skies, Elvis showcased his talent for design and attention to detail, making his plane a true extension of his stylish persona. It comes as no surprise that his aircraft continued to capture the imagination long after his passing.
Elvis Presley’s jet, named Lisa Marie after his daughter, may have remained dormant for over thirty years in a remote region of New Mexico, but it still maintains its grace, despite the subtle light red tint that has developed on its exterior over time.
Stepping inside this piece of aviation history is like entering a world of opulence and luxury. The interior walls are elegantly paneled in traditional oak, with the seating upholstered in the most sumptuous crimson velvet imaginable. One can easily envision the King of Rock himself reclining in one of these seats, donning his signature sunglasses, and basking in the lap of luxury.
The seating area provides ample space for passengers to stretch their legs and enjoy a comfortable journey. Behind the main dining area, there is a small kitchen equipped with everything needed for food preparation, including a vintage microwave. It’s not hard to imagine Elvis himself whipping up one of his famous sandwiches—a delightful combination of peanut butter, mayonnaise, bacon, and banana—and warming it up in the microwave before indulging in this savory treat.
While the restroom on the aircraft may not have the same level of opulence as the rest of the interior, it still boasts an impressive design. It could benefit from some elegant elements like velvet and a more sophisticated sink. However, it is a significant improvement compared to the cramped bathrooms aboard most charter aircraft.
During my exploration of the plane, I had the incredible luck of catching a glimpse of Elvis in his finest holiday outfit, adding to the overall experience and sense of awe.
The auction of this magnificent aircraft took place on January 8 at the Mecum Kissimmee Collector Car Auction in Florida, with a winning bid of $260,000. The new owner, who chose to remain anonymous over the phone, has embarked on a new chapter for this remarkable piece of history. We eagerly await what lies in store for this magnificent jet, confident that it will continue to captivate and inspire fans of Elvis Presley and aviation enthusiasts alike.
