Michael Jordan's $70M jet: Luxury in the skies, high on costs
NBA legend Michael Jordan does not hold back when it comes to comfort, especially regarding means of transportation. The Chicago Bulls icon, with a fortune estimated at $3.5 billion, spent $70 million on a Gulfstream 650E private jet customized to his requirements.
The aircraft's rear features the distinctive "Jumpman" logo, and the aircraft's registration number, N236MJ, is meticulously chosen. It refers to his jersey number (23) and the number of championships won (6) and ends with the initials MJ. According to the Federal Aviation Administration database, the registration belongs to the MJ Air LLC.
The Gulfstream G650ER is known for setting records in the business aviation industry. It can reach speeds of 0.925 Mach and is powered by two Rolls-Royce BR725 engines. Jordan made several modifications to increase his jet's range, allowing for flights up to 13 hours without refuelling.
The 100-metre jet can accommodate 19 passengers and 4 crew members.
The interior of the plane is as luxurious as its exterior appearance. Each of Jordan's passengers travels in exceptional comfort thanks to spacious leather seats.
The aircraft also has a dining area and a fully stocked bar with LED lighting. For longer journeys, Jordan can utilize a private bedroom on board.
Michael Jordan is known for travelling in grand style. In addition to jets, he enjoys sailing on superyachts like Joy. His wealth, built on global basketball fame and successful business investments, continues to grow.
Jordan retains a minority stake in the Charlotte Hornets after selling the majority stake for $3 billion last year. He is also a co-owner of the NASCAR team 23XI and holds shares in the sports betting company DraftKings.
$70 million on a jet. That's not the end of the expenses
The operational costs of the luxury jet, however, are not low. The full-service annual costs reach up to $1.86 million, including fuel ($727,000), crew salaries ($344,000), engine service ($192,000), and insurance ($57,000). With 400 hours of annual flight, these costs nearly double, totalling $2.99 million.
