After being abandoned in a New Mexico desert for years, Elvis Presley’s private plane will soon be up for auction. The 1962 Lockheed 1329 Jetstar airplane has been sitting in an abandoned aircraft graveyard for years and was largely forgotten by the owner and the general public. After sitting in the New Mexico desert for 35 years, an abandoned plane will go to auction as part of Mecum Actions.
If the auction buyer is willing to put in some effort, they will be able to recreate Presley’s airplane; even though it is currently in poor condition. Out of the three aircrafts Elvis Presley owned, the Jetstar was one that he purchased for $840,000 in 1976. Unfortunately, only a year later after this purchase, he passed away.
The auctioneers are passionate about finding a buyer for Presley’s aircraft who will share their enthusiasm for repairing the plane and returning it to its pristine condition when owned by Elvis.
According to the listing, “Elvis and his effect on the music industry are known the world over, and this opportunity for a new owner to acquire an extravagant piece of his aviation past is a momentous occasion with untold room for flights of rock ‘n’ roll fancy.”
Presley’s Jetstar was sold in 2017 for $430,000. It is unclear why the jet is being auctioned off again so soon, but it could earn a lot more money this time around. The plane does require a new engine before it can fly again, though.
The 1970s jet is filled with charming nostalgia, including red velvet seats and a cassette player.
A total of 204 planes collaborated between Lockheed and Jetstar from 1957-1978, with Presley’s plane being one of them.
“With a busy touring schedule, these crafts were needed to transport the singer, his TCB band, backup groups, Col. Tom Parker, and the ever-present Memphis Mafia to venues, concerts, and appearances all around the country,” the listing reads. “Elvis kept several pilots on retainer that was ready to fly him to adoring fans at a moment’s notice.”
Elvis Presley was one of the most famous musicians of his time. He sold over a billion records and starred in 33 movies. He was known for his talent, deep voice, and self-deprecating sense of humor. Elvis was married to Priscilla Presley for several years.
Presley’s life began deteriorating not long after he bought this airplane. In the weeks before his death, those close to him noted that he would often stumble, slur his words, and have difficulty breathing. He also became addicted to prescription medication in 1972.
Have you heard that Elvis Presley’s abandoned airplane is going up for auction? What are your thoughts on this?
